The Hindu : Other States News : Chhattisgarh to induct ‘Gram Chowkidars’ as informers

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Chhattisgarh to induct ‘Gram Chowkidars’ as informers

Bid to strengthen intelligence network in naxal-hit regions

Raipur: In a bid to strengthen intelligence network in naxal-hit regions of the state, Chhattisgarh Government has decided to include ‘Gram Chowkidars’ (village guards) as informers.

By handing over responsibility of informers to the Gram Chowkidars, the government hopes to tackle the naxal problem and strengthen security in the villages, officials said.

The shortfall in the intelligence network has been hampering the state police to an extent in fighting the naxals so much so that during the past four years, around 1,400 people, including police officers, have lost their lives.

Police officers say that due to shortcomings in the network, it takes a long time to receive information.

The naxals, on the other hand, employ even women and children as informers, the officials said.

It is also difficult to get information about naxal activities from villagers because of the fear they have created, they said. ‘Gram chowkidars’ in each village will be given a register wherein they would be required to note details of people coming from outside the state and incidents happening in the region, including theft and fraud.

The chowkidars will be required to submit the register to the nearest police station on a weekly basis. - PTI

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