Are Maoists Extorting Rs 5 Lakh from a Medicine Trader in Bihar's Arwal District?

Synopsis
A Maoist group has allegedly demanded Rs 5 lakh from a medicine trader in Bihar's Arwal district, causing panic among local businesses. This incident underscores the growing influence of such groups in the region and raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement. What does this mean for the safety of traders in central Bihar?
Key Takeaways
- Maoist threats are resurfacing in Bihar, alarming local traders.
- The demand for Rs 5 lakh highlights the ongoing extortion issues.
- The incident raises serious questions about local law enforcement effectiveness.
- Political reactions indicate a possible conspiracy theory surrounding the ruling party's involvement.
- Increased security measures are being implemented to protect the community.
Patna, June 12 (NationPress) In a startling development, a handwritten pamphlet purportedly released by a Maoist group has been discovered in Bihar's Arwal district, demanding Rs 5 lakh from a local pharmacy owner on Thursday.
The pamphlet was found posted at Bhagat Singh Chowk, a highly secured area situated near the Superintendent of Police's (SP) office in Arwal town.
This incident has caused significant alarm among traders, especially in Arwal, Baidrabad, and nearby markets.
The document, allegedly issued by a Maoist organization, insists that the sum be paid within five days.
The threat outlined in the pamphlet warned that failure to comply would result in severe repercussions, including bomb attacks or death.
This is not the first instance of such threats emerging in the region.
A similar note was previously found at the Arwal court, demanding extortion from traders, but no decisive action was undertaken by the authorities.
In response to this alarming situation, district police promptly removed the pamphlet and initiated an investigation.
However, worries are escalating over the apparent ease with which such materials can be displayed in a critical area.
Arwal MLA Mahanand Singh reacted strongly, criticizing the Bihar government for its perceived inaction and alleging that it aims to instill fear during the election period.
“This is a meticulously planned scheme by the ruling BJP to create unrest in the region,” Singh remarked.
“Despite the serious nature of this threat being placed near the SP’s office, no apprehensions have been made. How can something like this go unnoticed in such a busy and sensitive location?” he inquired.
He further suggested that Maoist factions are being shielded by members of the ruling party, asserting that the administration has entirely failed to maintain law and order in the district.
The SHO of Arwal police station confirmed the occurrence and noted, “The pamphlet was likely posted overnight, and we learned about it on Thursday morning. An investigation is currently in process.”
The SHO mentioned that the pamphlet is undergoing forensic analysis, and a probe has been launched to ascertain the legitimacy of the threat.
“We have advised locals to remain calm. Security measures have been heightened across sensitive locations,” he added.
This incident has reignited discussions around the resurgence of Maoist threats in central Bihar and raised serious concerns regarding the administration's preparedness.