The Hindu : Macabre act, says YSR

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Mar 19, 2004

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Macabre act, says YSR

By Our Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD, MARCH 18. The former Leader of the Opposition, Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, in a statement here on Thursday expressed shock at the killing of Venkata Raju, husband of the Tribal Welfare Minister, M. Manikumari, by the People's War naxalites. He appealed to the PW to give up violence and join the mainstream.

Terming the killing a macabre act he said it was reprehensible that such acts of violence were directed against those engaged in public service. Dr. Reddy added that the Congress had built various democratic institutions painstakingly over the years and was of the firm belief that violence had no place in civil society. Dr. Reddy said an enduring solution to the naxalite problem would only come through dialogue and discussion. He offered condolences to the bereaved family.

Speaker condoles death

The Speaker of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, K. Pratibha Bharathi, expressed deep shock and grief over the death of M. Venkata Raju, husband of the Tribal Welfare Minister, M. Manikumari.

In another statement, the CPI State Secretary, Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, condemned "the ghastly murder" of Mr. Raju and extended condolences to Ms. Manikumari. He said such terror tactics would create serious impediments to the democratic process and urged the naxals to desist from such acts.

Poll authorities shocked

The State election authorities also expressed shock and dismay at the killing. The Chief Electoral Officer, M. Narayana Rao, termed the incident "unfortunate and very sad". He said the Election Commission had been informed of the incident.

He reiterated the commission's plea to PW naxalites to participate in the democratic process by removing fear psychosis among public and creating an atmosphere for free and fair elections. He said the commission was keeping a close watch on the law and order situation in the State, especially naxalite activity. The Visakhapatnam district Collector and the Superintendent of Police have been asked to take steps required to instil confidence among the public regarding the poll process.

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