All India Forward Bloc

AIFB Strongly Condemns Extrajudicial Killings in Chhattisgarh; Demands Immediate Halt to Operation and Initiation of Dialogue

The All India Forward Bloc (AIFB) strongly condemns the ongoing so-called encounter killings of senior leaders of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) — Nambala Kesava Rao (alias Basavaraj), Sudhakar, Mailarapu Adellu (alias Bhaskar) and others— in Chhattisgarh. These killings, carried out under the guise of antiMaoist operations, mark a disturbing erosion of the rule of law and democratic norms in our country.

The government’s persistent use of force and annihilation tactics to suppress dissenting voices, particularly those raising legitimate concerns of Adivasis, the poor, and the marginalised, is a dangerous deviation from democratic principles. Reports indicate that the Maoists have expressed their willingness to engage in dialogue. If so, the government must create a conducive atmosphere for peaceful negotiation, rather than pursuing a path of bloodshed and militarisation.

This militaristic approach not only violates fundamental human rights but also closes the door on a possible democratic resolution to long-standing social, economic, and political grievances. The use of extrajudicial killings, masquerading as encounters, sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the credibility of our democratic institutions.

The All India Forward Bloc reiterates its firm belief that any democratic government must uphold the Constitution, respect human rights, and respond to dissent through dialogue and political engagement, not violence.

The All India Forward Bloc demands an immediate halt to all encounter-based operations in the so-called Maoist-affected areas, initiate a transparent and inclusive dialogue process with all stakeholders, especially those representing the rights and aspirations of Adivasi communities and declare an independent judicial inquiry into these killings.

Let it be clear — silencing voices through bullets will not bring peace or justice. Only democratic dialogue and equitable development can lead to a lasting solution.

(G. DEVARAJAN)
General Secretary