Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee doubts forces’ reflex action capability

Indirectly admitting that there was lack of alertness and coordination, West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee on Thursday appointed an independent commission to investigate the daring Maoist attack in Shilda.

He expressed doubts over the response reflex capability of the combined forces fighting Maoists in his state. “I admit there was severe security lapse and lack of alertness. Otherwise, the killing of 24 Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR) jawans and one civilian could have been avoided,” Bhattacharjee said.

“The commission will probe every aspect… we need to know what the personnel were doing when the camp was attacked. We also need to know how the Maoists reached the area and how the security forces responded,” a visibly irritated Bhattacharjee said.

The chief minister made it clear that he was not ready to pick up a fight with the Centre for sending a two-member team without prior knowledge. The central team had detailed meetings with the senior police officials from Maoist-affected areas. Bhattacharjee said operations against the Maoists will continue.

Meanwhile, fresh violence erupted in West Midnapore district on Thursday as the combined forces started a counter-offensive. The forces faced stiff Maoist resistance, but were more alert this time and retaliated well. The fiercest gun battle took place at Banisole area. Multiple landmine blasts were also reported from the region. But there were no reports of casualties.