Bagaha (Bihar): Defence Minister and JD-U (Janata Dal-United) president George Fernandes today (Apr 21, 2004) urged the proscribed People's War and the Maoist Communist Centre (MCC), who have given a joint call for poll boycott in Bihar, to shun the path of violence and join the social mainstream.

"In a democratic set up, there is no place for violence. Nothing can be achieved through the path of violence. The naxalites should affirm their faith in democracy and join the social mainstream," Fernandes said while addressing an election rally at Harnatand bazar under Bagaha Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar while canvassing support for his party's candidate Kailash Baitha.

Elections 2004-The Drama unfolds...
Political Parties in India

Fernandes said naxalites should adopt the constitutional path to raise whatever things they wanted to bring forth.

Meanwhile, the banned MCC set ablaze a campaign vehicle of Samata candidate and sitting MP, Mahendra Baitha at Harnatand Bazar under Laukaria police station in Bagaha last night, police said.

The extremists also looted election materials from the election office of Mahendra baitha there.