(a) whether the notorious sandalwood smuggler Veerappan kidnapped a famous Kannada film star recently and continues his depredations in the Southern States;
(b) if so, the reasons for not apprehending this criminal with the help of para-military forces;
(c) whether the concerned State Governments have sought the help of para-military forces to arrest Veerappan and his gang mates; and
(d) if so, the decision taken by the Union Government in the matter?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (CH. VIDYASAGAR RAO)
(a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO STARRED QUESTION NO.426 FOR ANSWER IN LOK SABHA ON 19TH DECEMBER, 2000 REGARDING VEERAPPAN GANG.
(a) to (d): Dr. Rajkumar, the noted Kannada film actor was abducted by Veerappan on the night of 30th July, 2000 and released on November 15, 2000. After the release of Dr. Rajkumar from captivity the State Governments of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have formulated a joint strategy for nabbing Veerappan and reactivated the STF operations. Both the State Governments have now requested the Central Government for providing assistance to supplement and improve their resources, in the conduct of operations against Veerappan and his gang. As per their request, the Central Government has provided necessary assistance by way of deployment of para-military forces, supply of weaponry and equipment etc.