UP Assembly Election 2012: Dacoits & diktats in Bundelkhand

Bundelkhand, straddling parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, has been infamous for its dacoit gangs who have held the region in their thrall since the late 18th century.

The British, who eclipsed the Marathas in the region, failed to consolidate their control, with the result that the peasants and labourers were often forced to seek protection of these gangs led by a series of local Robin Hoods.

Though the influence of dacoits has been steadily on the wane, several of them have stayed fresh in public memory because some of them have been closely associated with political parties.

In Jalaun, Banda and Chitrakoot districts in particular, dacoits, many of them Kurmis, have been an integral part of the political landscape, often issuing diktats for favouring candidates of their choice in the polls.

Shiv Kumar Patel, alias Dadua, held sway over his native Chitrakoot district and far beyond for nearly three decades before being eliminated in 2007.

Ambika Patel, alias Thokia, was charged with killing six commandos, besides other cases of murders, looting.

Take a look at the gang active in the region: