Despite this casual approach to army presence, they are prepared for any eventuality. When a television crew reminded them that the army had powerful fire arms, one of them called back from a crowd of about 20 people, “Humare paas bhi hain,” before the elders silenced him.
True to their words, they were indeed carrying firearms. Some youngsters showed off their country made pistols for cameramen.
Weapons are not a problem for them. Food is. The Army has choked their supply lines and their stock is fast dwindling. To use the remaining supplies judiciously and marshall the unruly crowd, Bainsla has formed a Tiger Force, something similar to the Army. For Bainsla, a retired colonel, this is war. A war which he is desperately hoping to end soon. Though Bainsla is said to see no reason in continuing the standoff, he is caught between the government and his own men, both of whom will not back off.
The government, in an attempt to tighten the screws has filed two cases against him. The courts have summoned him to appear before them on May 30.
The Army is now also planning to cut off the supply of ice, which is used to preserve the decomposing bodies. With about two days worth supplies and no ice, there is little that Bainsla could do but throw in the towel. But will his people let him do it? On the fifth day, one report quoted an elderly leader as saying: "If Bainsla decides to leave, we are ready to build a statue for him at this same place."
Image: Tractors laden with food, fruits and water were doing the rounds in Bayana and Sikandra. These stocks are fast dwindling as the Army has cut off supplies into the area.
Also read: Kirori Lal Bainsla: Fallen hero?
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