Monday, February 16, 2009

Killing of a Hindu savant has exposed a deep schism

Though this is the first ever poster and handout released in Orissa under the signature of Saket, the language resembles other literatures issued by the Maoists. “We are examining the authenticity of this material and investigating into Naxalnewly surfaced intra-party conflict within Maoists,” said a top police official of the state.

Sabyasachi’s clash with his party bosses has also resulted in the Maoists' first ever split on religious lines. Hindu members of the organistaion, protesting against Laxmanananda's murder, broke away to form a rival group and named itself “Ideologues of Democrat Guerrilla Army (Maoist)". This development came to light when they put up posters threatening to target Christian members of the party. Sources say the new group was formally launched on January 3, under the leadership of a guerrilla identified as M2. IDGA-Maoist also proved its existence by observing successful bandh in at least three sensitive districts of Orissa.

Though so far no reaction has come from Sabyasachi Panda, sources close to him reveal that he differs with other top leaders of the party regarding selection of members for the central committee and communal issues revolving round Laxmanananda killing. Is this the first alarm bell for the beginning of disintegration of Maoist stronghold in Orissa?....Continue