DC Vandana Dadel. Telegraph picture

Giridih, Oct. 29: For the first time in the history of Jharkhand, a deputy commissioner spoke in a language patented by politicians and urged people to co-operate in the development of Naxalite-hit areas.

In a two-page communiqué, Giridih deputy commissioner Vandana Dadel urged the people of Pirtand to “take on the rebels who are hindering development”.

In an attempt to instil faith in people after social activist Ajay Tuddu was assassinated on Saturday, Dadel released a rather emotional message stating that the district administration was with them in this period of crisis.

Dadel, in her statement, not only showed her helplessness to implement development works in Maoist stronghold areas, but also praised the role of Tuddu as a “true social activist”.

Tuddu was killed a day after he had met chief minister Shibu Soren on the development of Pirtand in the district. On Monday, police claimed that the Maoists had killed Tuddu, as he was taking several measures for development of the area.

“It has been four months since I joined as deputy commissioner of this district. I remember when I had got information for official posting in Giridih, I was not happy, as Giridih was more known for Naxalite acts than its industries, its scenic beauty and mica business,” Dadel began the communiqué with a personal note.

“After taking charge, I have taken it as a challenge. But it is not hidden from anybody that in some areas of the district, officials could not venture freely without proper security arrangements. When I travel to such areas, it makes me feel sad that I am still far away from the downtrodden and needy tribal people. I was feeling helpless to bridge the gap created by Maoists in the backward areas. In these conditions, there were no direct talks with people of these areas,” she said in the release.

“Amid these, when Ajay Tuddu met me on the issue of taking Pirtand’s Dak Bangla on lease, it sprang surprise as well as made me happy also that one person was working there without any hue and cry and there is one person who wants to bring change in such areas.”

“He met me on several occasions and discussed the issues of Pirtand in detail. I found truth in his words and that he is dedicated for the uplift of tribal community,” Dadel added.

Further, the deputy commissioner called upon people, especially of Pirtand area for realising the dream of Tuddu and not to succumb before the rebels.

“The decision is at your hand. No messiah would come from outside but you have to take responsibility not to succumb before these people. I appeal to Pirtand people to gather and rise up against such killings,” she added.