CPM, BUPC agree to ceasefire in Nandigram

A truce was reached today between CPI-M and anti-acquisition activists at strife-torn Nandigram even as the West Bengal government announced compensation for those who died in the March 14 police firing and violence.

Chief Secretary A K Deb said Rs 2 lakh would be paid to the families of each of the 14 killed in the police firing. No decision has, however, been taken about those injured in the incidents, he said.

Supporters of the Bhumi Ucched Pratirodh Committee (BUPC) agreed to refrain from violence and lay down arms after a meeting with CPI-M leaders.

Deb said both the groups reached an agreement that the administration would take action against anyone who used arms.

Deb, quoting a BUPC source, said the committee had no link with Maoists and anyone suspected of having ties with Naxalites would face action.

He also said that the BUPC's demand for withdrawal of cases lodged against those involved in the March 14 violence had been rejected.
"The government will take action if any case of indulging in violence on March 14 is proved on inquiry," he said.

Chief Minister Buddhadev Bhattacharjee had earlier said that compensation would be paid to the families of the victims of the police firing.