Thaindian News

Ranchi, Nov 17 (IANS) A nun-cum-activist who was beaten to death two days ago in Jharkhand was probably killed by local tribals, police said Thursday, ruling out the possibility of the Maoists or the coal mafia being involved. Chief Minister Arjun Munda said if needed a probe, separate from police, could also be ordered.

“It seems she was killed by the tribal people,” Deputy Inspector General of Police of Sathal region V.K. Pandey told IANS

Condemning the murder in Pakur district, Chief Minister Arjun Munda said, if needed, a separate high-level probe panel could also be constituted.

“Police is investigating the matter. If needed, a high-level probe team will be constituted in the murder of Valsha John,” Munda told reporters.

Around 40 people Tuesday night hacked to death Valsa John, 52, a native of Kerala, after raiding Pachuwara village in Pakur district, some 500 km from here.

Valsha John was killed by the local tribals, police said Thursday, ruling out the involvement of the Maoists or the coal mafia in the murder. Her body was buried in Dumka district Thursday.

The nun’s family members alleged that she was killed by the coal mafia.

The nun came to Pakur district nearly a decade ago as a teacher in a mission-run school. She later started another school and taught students up to Class 4.

She came out in support of people who were opposing displacement due to the Panam coal mine in 2006. She earned the respect of the tribal people for spearheading the movement.

Police said she later started staying away from the district.

“It seems local tribal people held a grudge against her as she was staying away from the district. She returned from Kerala in the first week of the month and had to face protests by tribals,” Pandey said.