CPIML strongly condemns the attack in Dantewada, reportedly carried out by Maoists, in which BJP MLA Bhima Mandavi, as well as three security personnel and the driver of his vehicle have been killed.

The attack, days before polling, is an attempt to create a climate of fear and terror to deter voters. This kind of violence on civilians and elected representatives is an inexcusable assault on democratic processes.

In this crucial 2019 elections, where democratic forces are striving to ensure the defeat of the fascist BJP, such an attack, reportedly in the name of enforcing a Maoist call to "boycott polls", also reveals the political bankruptcy of the Maoists.

The CPIML demands a high-level investigation into the attack to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

- Prabhat Kumar for CPIML Central Committee