Man killed in last month’s encounter was a govt school cook, officials say; police maintain Maoist link

Tensions have risen in a remote tribal district after the man killed in a police encounter last month was identified as a cook at a government school. Local officials confirmed his employment record, while the police still insist he was linked to Maoist groups.

The man, Ramprasad Gond, 38, worked at a primary school under the mid-day meal scheme. His family and community have rejected the police claim, saying he had no connection to Maoist insurgents.

Family Says He Was Innocent and Known for His Work

Ramprasad’s wife, Shanti, said he left home that morning to buy supplies for the school kitchen. “He told me he’d return before lunch. But by evening, we heard he’d been killed,” she said.

“He never had a weapon. He only held a ladle and cooked for children,” she added.

Their son, who studies at the same school, recalled, “Everyone called him ‘Masterji’ even though he wasn’t a teacher. He cared for every child.”

Villagers say Ramprasad regularly bought food on credit when school rations ran out. He helped fix benches and even painted school walls. According to locals, he was a well-respected man who avoided politics or protest.

Police Insist He Was Involved With Maoists

Despite the backlash, the police continue to say Ramprasad had ties to banned Maoist groups. A senior officer said, “We had solid intelligence. He was spotted with known Maoist cadres. He fled when asked to surrender.”

The officer added that Maoist supporters often take up government jobs to avoid suspicion. “Being a cook doesn’t mean he was innocent,” he said.

So far, the police have not shared physical evidence linking Ramprasad to any insurgent group. No weapons or Maoist literature were recovered from him.

This lack of proof has deepened public doubt and triggered anger across the region.

Officials Confirm His Employment at Government School

The district education office confirmed Ramprasad’s work history. “He joined in 2018 and never missed duty. His attendance was marked just days before his death,” said a senior education official.

The Block Development Officer also confirmed this. “This man was on government records. We’ve shared all employment details with the police,” the BDO said.

Officials are now under pressure to explain how a registered school employee ended up on an encounter list.

Activists and Rights Groups Demand a Probe

Rights groups have stepped in and called for a full investigation. “This isn’t the first time a tribal civilian has died like this,” said Leela Murmu from a local rights network. “Too many poor men are being killed without clear evidence.”

Lawyer Satyajit Tudu has filed a case with the State Human Rights Commission. “We want an independent probe. If he was innocent, this is state violence. If not, let the truth come out with facts,” he said.

Activists warn that innocent people are getting caught in the middle of a conflict they don’t support. “They’re being profiled just because they live in Maoist-hit areas,” said Murmu.

Is There a Pattern of Misidentification?

Several past incidents in tribal belts show similar patterns. Men killed in encounters were later found to be farmers, laborers, or daily wage workers. Many of these cases remain unresolved.

In a 2022 case, a man killed in a similar operation was later found to be a local schoolteacher. That family is still fighting in court for justice.

Experts say a lack of checks and no third-party verification often leads to such errors. “In conflict zones, suspicion becomes evidence. That’s dangerous,” said a political analyst based in Ranchi.

Family Seeks Justice and Clarity

Back in the village, Ramprasad’s family is in mourning. His wife now faces an uncertain future with two children and no income. “He gave food to children. Now people say he was a terrorist,” she said.

The family has demanded compensation, a public apology, and a government job for his wife. They also want Ramprasad’s name cleared.

“We want justice. We want his truth to be known,” said his elder brother, who works as a farmer.

Government Faces Growing Pressure

Local leaders and opposition parties have started asking questions. Some have visited the village and promised support. A few MLAs have written to the Chief Minister, seeking an impartial inquiry.

The administration says it is reviewing all reports and will take action if there was any wrongdoing. “We will not protect anyone. But we also won’t punish anyone without full facts,” a senior official said.

Meanwhile, Ramprasad’s death has become a symbol of what many call “encounter justice” in tribal India.