Siddaramaiah Justifies Killing Maoist Leader Vikram Gowda, Says ‘Should Naxalism Remain Or Go?’

Bengaluru: One should appreciate encounter of Naxalites, said Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah who appeared to justify killing of Maoist leer Vikram Gowda in an encounter with Anti-Naxal Force (ANF).

Siddaramaiah stated that Gowda faced several criminal cases and chose to ignore government’s direction to lay down arms and join mainstream.

Responding to a question on some expressing doubts about encounter, Siddaramaiah said, “re is a standing order. We have said that if y (Naxals) surrender y will be given all facilities. He (Gowda) did not surrender. Kerala government h announced Rs 25 lakh reward on him, our government h announced Rs 5 lakh reward.”

"You should appreciate it ( encounter). Should Naxalism remain or go?" he ded.

Gowda(46) was killed in an alleged exchange of fire between ANF and a group of Maoists near Peetabailu village in Kabbinale area near Hebri of Udupi district.

Gowda was reportedly one of most wanted Maoist leers from Karnataka, facing 61 cases, including murder and extortion, in state and 19 in Kerala.