A state-level convention and protest was held in Sangrur, Punjab, on May 22, in response to the recent killing of 27 individuals, including Keshav Rao, General Secretary of the banned CPI (Maoist), during an encounter in Bastar. The event was organized by the Democratic Front Against Operation Green Hunt and aimed to oppose Operation Kagaar and other security operations in Adivasi-dominated regions.
Participants at the convention criticized the ongoing military operations in Bastar, which they described as efforts linked to resource extraction in mineral-rich areas. They expressed concerns over displacement, arrests, and the treatment of Adivasi communities, alleging that many people are being labeled as Maoists without due process.
Over 40 organizations from Punjab—including groups representing farmers, laborers, students, and professionals—participated. The event included speeches, cultural performances, and a tribute to those killed in recent encounters. It was attended by figures such as Dr. Navsharan, Dr. Parminder Singh, Professor A.K. Maleri, Boota Singh Mehmoodpur, and Yashpal Chandigarh.
Speakers argued that operations like Operation Kagaar are contributing to increased militarization in tribal areas, and that the government should prioritize addressing the underlying socio-economic issues. Dr. Navsharan alleged that air strikes and other military tactics are being used in civilian areas, and that there is a need to recognize the rights of Adivasis over land, forests, and water. She called for an end to aerial attacks and arrests based on alleged affiliations, and demanded the release of prisoners detained under security laws.
Dr. Parminder Singh linked the situation in Bastar to the broader political context in Punjab, alleging that similar methods are being used to suppress local protests. He stated that protest movements by farmers and laborers in Punjab have been met with strong police responses, and described these actions as undermining democratic rights.
The convention passed several resolutions, including:
- Ending encounters and drone strikes in tribal regions.
- Withdrawing paramilitary forces and removing security camps from Adivasi areas.
- Rejecting economic policies that lead to displacement.
- Recognizing traditional rights of Adivasi communities.
- Releasing individuals imprisoned for political dissent or opposition to government policies.
- Abolishing the National Investigation Agency (NIA), citing concerns over its role in political cases.
One resolution condemned the killings of Keshav Rao and others, asserting that military operations should be suspended and that the government should engage in dialogue with Maoist and other armed movements to address long-standing grievances. Another resolution criticized the Punjab state government for its handling of protests and called for broader support from civil society.
The convention also passed a resolution on Palestine, calling for an end to violence in Gaza and criticizing international support for the Israeli government.
Following the convention, approximately 550 people participated in a protest march in Sangrur, calling for an end to military operations in tribal areas and greater protection of civil rights.
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*Freelance journalist
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