Based on an inquiry conducted by RD Mina, Principal Secretary, Backward Classes Welfare Department on November 16, 2008, state Home Secretary

Ardhendu Sen said on Monday that if required, the government will start departmental proceedings against the two officers involved in the assault.

A local tribal leader, Chattradhar Mahato, however, said: “The inquiry has proved that the police officers had assaulted the tribal women in Chhotopelia village on November 6 last year. Now, we want the district police to apologise to the victims.”

He added that until their demand is not met, the non-cooperation movement would continue in Lalgarh.

When contacted, N S Nigam, District Magistrate, West Midnapore, said the administration has not yet received any offer for talks with the tribals. He said the administration is maintaining a strong vigil on the tribal movement.

The tribals had begun a non-cooperation movement against the administration on January 7, demanding police apology for assaulting women in the raids conducted after the Salboni blast on November 2 last year.