Phidim, April 22:

Even after joining the interim government, Maoists have not cared to return the land, buildings and property belonging to the Agriculture Inputs Company at Phidim, they had seized last October.

Despite pleas by the lessee of the land, they are refusing to move out and have also stated that they will not vacate it so soon.

Two buildings and a godown covering six ropanis of land were given on lease to a civilian Uddhav Gautam, but, “the Maoists then seized the buildings and godown for use as shelters for PLA soldiers,” said Gautam.

Despite the Maoists’ occupation of the land and building, Gautam has to pay all the electricity, water and telephone bills. Gautam has to pay a rent of Rs 30, 200 annually to the AIC.

He said mushroom farming is now in a shambles after the Maoists seized the land and buildings.

Central member of CPN (ML) Dinanath Ghimire said the Maoists’ activities were causing trouble.

Maoist district member Laxmi Neupane said that his party would not vacate the land and building so soon.