CPM visits Ground Zero, rally today

Meanwhile, the CPI-M leaders on Tuesday questioned the role of the CRPF in Nandigram stating that they are harassing the local villagers and CPI-M supporters. On their first visit to Nandigram since last December, when trouble broke out following proposed land acquisition over SEZ, the CPI-M leaders visited various areas of Nandigram and held meetings with district heads. The leaders said they will speak with the district administration on working out ways for returning peace in Nandigram.

“The CRPF was deployed in Nandigram to protect the people. But we have learnt that the Central force is acting along with the Trinamool hooligans,” said Chakraborty.

The CPI-M leaders first went to Rayapara party office in the morning flanked by district leaders, including Ashok Guria and Ashok Bera. After an hour-long meeting the leaders went to Nandigram party office.

Later, they visited villages in Garchakraberia, Sonachura and Bhangabera. There they met the villagers who complained about their houses being burnt down and paddy fields being destroyed.

“So many people have lost their homes and their livelihood. We will hold talks with the administration so that they can be provided with appropriate compensations. Our supporters were out for more than 11 months and their houses were vandalised during that period,” said Md Salim.

Reacting to allegations, DIG CRPF, Alok Raj, said the leaders should prove their allegations. “Let them prove their allegations. We will then take action.”