Tribal Man Killed in Anti-Naxal Operation: Call for Investigation

A man named Hiran Singh Partha was killed during a police operation against Naxals (Maoists) in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh. Officials say he was a tribal member of the Baiga community and not a Maoist. The incident happened on March 9, but his identity was confirmed later on March 13. Police said Partha was in the jungle with Naxalites, but they don’t know why he was with them.

The opposition party, Congress, claims he was innocent and is asking for a detailed investigation. Congress Leader Narayan Singh Patta visited Partha’s village and spoke to his family. He said Partha was a good man who worked to support his family and might not have even known much about the Maoists.

After Partha was killed, the police arrested two other men who they say helped the Naxals by providing supplies. They have charged these men with serious crimes. A union leader for forest workers claimed that the two men are being falsely accused and plans to ask for their release.