Surya Hansda encounter: BJP finalises inquiry report, Munda alleges conspiracy over minerals

The BJP’s seven-member committee formed to examine the death of Surya Hansda in a police encounter in Godda met at the party’s state office on Wednesday and finalised its report. The report will be submitted to state president Babulal Marandi.

Those present at the meeting included former Chief Minister Arjun Munda, former Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri, former MP Sunil Soren and party spokespersons Amit Mandal and Anita Soren.

Advertisement

Arjun Munda, who led the team to Lalmatia earlier, said family members and local residents believed the encounter was staged. He alleged that Hansda’s opposition to illegal mining had brought him into conflict with vested interests. He also pointed out that Hansda’s name did not figure in the case in which the encounter was shown.

He added that Hansda had been engaged in social work, particularly the education of poor children, and said the BJP would continue to pursue the matter and stand with the family. The party is expected to announce a protest programme in the coming days.

Munda said the incident appeared to be part of a conspiracy linked to minerals and that the committee’s findings would guide the party’s further course of action.

Former minister and BJP leader Lobin Hembrom said the encounter had created unease. While noting that he had contested elections against Hansda, he said the killing could not be justified. He also raised questions over the role of JMM state secretary Pankaj Mishra, against whom Hansda’s family has made allegations.

Hansda, earlier associated with the BJP, contested the last Assembly election on a JLKMP ticket after being denied a JMM nomination.