NIA Court Hands Down Death Sentences to 10 Maoists in Jhiram Ghati Case, Families of Convicts Express

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Bastar has awarded death sentences to 10 Maoists in the Jhiram Ghati case. A verdict that has left families of both the accused and at least one prominent victim disappointed. The judgment comes after over a decade-long trial, with at least 294 hearings.

The 10 Maoists convicted are Pramila Modiyam. Chaitu Lekam alias Munna, Sumita alias Punem Modiyam, Mukka Mandvi, Kosa Kavasi alias Kosaram, Aayata Markam, Madkami Deva, Joga Madkami, Banjami Sanna alias Chamru and Mahadev Nag. An 11th accused died during trial while another 28 are listed as wanted.

The families of the convicts have expressed disappointment with the judgment. With some claiming their loved ones were falsely implicated in the case. Guddu, brother of Kosa Kosavi, claimed his brother was involved in preparations for a family wedding when the attack took place.

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"They were not there at the time of the attack. Those who were involved have surrendered and are living freely, while those who were not involved are paying the price. The families are distressed and shattered," Guddu told The Indian Express.

A government official confirmed that top Maoists like Thippiri Tirupathi alias Devuji and Barse Deva. Who have surrendered, can still be prosecuted under the rehabilitation policy. Surrender does not automatically result in the withdrawal or closure of a criminal case the official said.

Tulika, daughter of Mahendra Karma, who was instrumental in founding the banned anti-Maoist militia Salwa Judum, demanded a narco test of then Chief Minister Raman Singh, his entire cabinet and top officials "from the DG to SP – who were in charge at the time of the incident."

The Jhiram Ghati attack took place on May 25, 2013. At that time, over 150 Maoists ambushed a Congress Parivartan Rally convoy and killed several people. This includes Karma, state Congress chief Nand Kumar Patel and his son Dinesh; and senior party leader and former MLA Uday Mudliyar.

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The Jhiram Ghati case is one of the most high-profile cases in Chhattisgarh. The attack was part of a larger campaign of violence by Maoist rebels against the government and its allies in the state.

"The states have their surrender policy and under it, appropriate decisions were taken based on the situation at that time. Further decisions will also be taken as per the surrender policy." said Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma.

We are not satisfied then and we are not satisfied now. We are not safe even now said Tulika, Karma's daughter.