Maoists seek Rs 1 crore and firearms as levy from Railways

SAMASTIPUR: Suspected Maoists have sought Rs one crore, firearms and ammunition as levy from the Railways and have threatened to blow up railway tracks between Motihari and Paniahwa railway stations in Bihar if their demands are not met.

Divisional Security Commandant (DSC) Kumar Nishant said the demands have been made through a letter sent to Divisional Railway Manger's office through post and signed by one Ramji Sahni, who claimed to be the area commander of Maoist Community Centre (MCC).

"Apart from Rs 1 crore cash, Sahni has demanded 50 rifles, 50 self loading Rifles, 50 carbines and 3,000 bullets and has threatened to blow rail tracks between Motihari and Paniahwa stations," Nishant said.

The DSC added that the letter contains three contact numbers of which two are switched off, while one is ringing but nobody is receiving the calls.

"We are investigating the matter and probing the mobile numbers. We have also informed the concerned Superintendent of Police about the threat," Nishant added.

The DSC also said the letter seems to be a "mischief" by anti-social elements and not written by Maoists as their demands include firearms, which are not in the possession of the DRM.

Proper security measures are being taken in view of the letter, he said.