Thursday, January 20 2005 12:07 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Hyderabad: The one-day bandh called by naxalities in Andhra Pradesh began on a tragic note with three extremists being killed in an encounter with police in Karimnagar district in early hours today (Jan 20, 2005).

According to police sources in Hyderabad, the exchange of fire took place at Siricilla town in naxalite stronghold district of Karimnagar when ultras attempted to set afire a bus in the town.

When policemen on duty warned naxalities against resorting to arson, the ultras opened fire and policemen retaliated killing three naxalities belonging to CPI -M (Communist Party of India-Maoists) Janashakthi group.

After withdrawing from peace talks, the naxalite organisations have called for bandh today to protest a spurt in police encounters.

The naxals killed in the encounter were identified as Salim, who was the team leader, Anil and Sreenu, all belonged to Karimnagar district.

"We had information that they were planning to blow up the bus depot at Siricilla town. When policemen reached, the armed naxalites started firing leading to encounter," the district Superintendent of Police Rajeev Ratan said.

Three weapons and some grenades were recovered from the spot.

Four buses were damaged when extremists pelted stones at them at Seetharampur in Anantapur district.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up across the state including the twin cities to prevent any untoward incidents. The State Road Transport Corporation has suspended bus services to several remote villages in the naxalite-affected areas, particularly in Telangana region.

In the state capital, 16 platoons of additional police forces have been deployed to maintain law and order and all vehicles entering into the city are being checked thoroughly, police sources said.

Meanwhile, naxalite emissary and revolutionary writer Varavara Rao said there was no chance of resumption of peace talks as long as 'police encounters and combing operations continue'.

"The present atmosphere in the state is not conducive for resuming talks. The Government is responsible for this situation as it has failed to check police excesses," Varavar Rao said.