Security beefed up for Maoist shutdown

Security has been beefed up in Jharkhand as the 24 hour shutdown called by the CPI in three states begin at midnight tonight, the police said.

Security has been beefed up in Jharkhand as the 24 hour shutdown called by the CPI(Maoists) in three states begin at midnight tonight, the police said.

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The Maoist announced the shutdown in Jharkhand, Bihar and Chhatisgarh to protest the arrest of one of their top leader, Rajesh alias Uday, in Ranchi two days ago, according to CPI(Maoist) Spokesman Gopal.

Rajesh carried a reward of Rs 5 lakh on his head and was wanted in Jharkhand and Chhatisgarh in connection with naxal violence.

Security personnel have been deployed at strategic points with special vigil on worst affected Palamau and Latehar districts, the sources added.

This will be the 7th shutdown by the Maoists this year and is the first time that the ultras called for 24 hours this year contrary to their earlier 48 hour or 72 hour bandh.