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problems can be addressed. In particular, we would like to include your views on the
development, impact, and outcomes of Salwa Judum—specifically, your responses to
the questions annexed to this letter.
We appreciate your responding to our questions, which if received by May 15, 2008,
will be taken into consideration in the preparation of our report. Responses may be
emailed (beckerj@hrw.org) or faxed (+1-212-736-1300) to us.
We also stand ready to engage in dialogue with you about important human rights
concerns in Dantewada and Bijapur, and possible solutions to the problems faced by
tribal communities in the region.
Sincerely,
Jo Becker
Advocacy Director
List of questions for your response:
1. Following NGO and fact-finding reports that government officials including
police were involved in human rights abuses committed by Salwa Judum, has
the government initiated any action against any government official
(including police officials) before the Supreme Court ordered the NHRC
investigation on April 15, 2008? Please furnish details including names of
officials, nature of action initiated, when such action was initiated, and any
outcome.
2. Given the nature of accusations of involvement of senior state police officials
and government security forces in human rights abuses, what precautions is
the government taking to ensure that such officials are not involved in
investigations?
3. What measures is the government taking to protect victims and witnesses
while deposing before NHRC?
4. What steps has the government taken to prevent custodial torture and
arbitrary arrest and detention of persons alleged to be Naxals? Has the
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Human Rights Watch July 2008