NHRC records statements

ROURKELA: A fact-finding team of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) wrapped up its visit to the Maoist-infested residential pockets in the adjoining Jharkhand on Friday.  The NHRC team arrived here following allegations of human rights violations during the recently completed ‘area domination operation’. The combing operation was carried out by  the Jharkhand security forces with support of their Orissa counterparts. Sources said the five-member NHRC team was led by Mamata Singh, a DIG rank officer. Other members of the team comprised DSP and Inspector rank officers. Throughout their visit amidst tight security, the team avoided the local media.The NHRC team visited the forested villages of Digha, Thalkobad and Jumburu  from where allegations of atrocities by security forces were reported. On Thursday, the team recorded the statement of Digha village head Niaran Toppo who had accused the security forces of beating up the villagers and damaging properties suspecting them of being Maoist supporters.