Skip to main content

Escalating militarization in Bastar: Campaign for Peace and Justice in Chhattisgarh protests

By A Representative 
The Campaign for Peace and Justice in Chhattisgarh (CPJC) has issued a strong condemnation of the alleged extrajudicial killing of 18-year-old Pandu Madvi and unlawful detention of seven villagers, including minors and an elderly individual, in Bijapur District, Chhattisgarh. This incident underscores an intensifying human rights crisis in the region, driven by state-led violence, militarization, and impunity.
On December 11, 2024, security forces allegedly opened fire indiscriminately on villagers working in the fields of Munga village. Eyewitnesses recount how the unarmed Pandu sought refuge in nearby houses but was pursued and fatally shot by the police. Women attempting to intervene were reportedly assaulted, and the police removed Pandu’s body, leaving behind blood-soaked clothes riddled with bullet holes. Following the incident, authorities labeled Pandu a Maoist leader in a press release, attributing weapon recovery to him.
Simultaneously, seven villagers were detained without cause, including minors and a 70-year-old man. These individuals were allegedly coerced into carrying Pandu’s body and have since been denied access to their families.
The events in Munga village are part of a broader trend of escalating militarization in Bastar, where Indigenous Adivasi communities bear the brunt of state-led counter-insurgency operations. Reports of indiscriminate bombing in villages across Bijapur District have left residents in fear, unable to farm or live safely. Unexploded bombs within villages further endanger lives.
CPJC has outlined specific actions to address these human rights violations:
1. Conduct an impartial investigation into Pandu Madvi’s killing.
2. Release the seven detained villagers, including minors and an elderly person, immediately.
3. Prosecute security personnel responsible for extrajudicial killings and illegal detentions.
4. Cease indiscriminate bombing in Bijapur District.
5. Halt security operations that disproportionately target Indigenous communities.
The CPJC urges the media to break the silence on these atrocities. Underreporting perpetuates the marginalization of Adivasi communities and emboldens the state’s actions. Journalists are called upon to document the crisis in Bastar with integrity, giving voice to the affected.
The unchecked militarization in Bastar is eroding lives, livelihoods, and democratic principles. Immediate steps are needed to ensure justice, protect Indigenous rights, and prevent further violations. The CPJC appeals to the government, civil society, and media to act decisively to uphold justice and democracy in the region.

Comments

Post a Comment

NOTE: Hateful, abusive comments won't be published. -- Editor

TRENDING

The making of a self-made woman: How eighty sheep changed everything for Kalawati Ninama

By Vikas Meshram*  About forty-two kilometres from Rajasthan's Banswara district, in the tribal heartland of Ghatol block, lies the small village of Ubapana. This is where Kalawati Ninama, her husband Dhulji, and their four children make their home. Their days unfold much like those of their neighbours—bustling mornings, long hours of farm labour through the afternoon, and evenings spent tending livestock. For this family, farming and livestock were once simply a means of putting food on the table. Today, they have become the sturdy foundation of something far greater: genuine self-sufficiency.
Post a Comment
»

India has spent billions on skilling. Where are the jobs?

By Vikas Gupta   India loves the photograph of a certificate ceremony. A minister on a stage. A banner bearing the word “skill.” Young people holding folders that promise a future. It is a reassuring image because it tells us the problem has a manageable answer: train the young, make them job-ready, and work will follow.
Post a Comment
»

BAPS, the Eiffel Tower and the curious silence on secularism

By Rajiv Shah   I was a little surprised to see how some of those whom I respect for taking a firm stand on patriarchal issues reacted to the manner in which they responded to the recent incident in Paris, in which women employees of the Eiffel Tower were asked to remain "invisible" on September 5 when 100 BAPS sadhus visited one of the world's top tourist destinations.
3 comments
»