Marandi forms 7-member probe team into Surya Hansda’s alleged encounter

Ranchi: BJP state president and leader of opposition Babulal Marandi has constituted a seven-member team to investigate the alleged encounter of Surya Hansda. The BJP maintains that Hansda was not killed in an encounter but murdered. The team will visit Godda district on August 17 to meet Hansda’s family and gather facts.

The probe panel includes former Chief Minister Arjun Munda, former leader of opposition Amar Bauri, BJP state vice president and ex-MLA Bhanu Pratap Shahi, former MP Sunil Soren, former MLAs Amit Mandal and Randhir Singh, and Anita Soren.

Meanwhile, Tiger Jayram Mahto, president of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha, has demanded a CBI inquiry, insisting that only a central agency can uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. Hansda’s family and supporters have also backed the demand.

Mahto raised questions over burn marks reportedly found on Hansda’s body, claiming they suggested torture rather than bullet injuries. “Such marks occur when hot substances like milk, oil, or fire touch the skin,” he said, alleging custodial abuse.

He further questioned why Hansda’s hands were not tied during detention, citing Sections 46 and 49 of the CrPC, which allow binding suspects in cases of criminal or anti-social activity. Mahto alleged possible pressure on the local administration and called for an impartial, independent investigation.