CPI (ML) leader from Sarsiwan in Eastern Champaran, Com. Nakchhed Shah passed away on 19 February 2017. He was more than 90 years old and had been active in the communist movement for the past 70 years.
Born in a poor Muslim family of agricultural workers, Com. Nakchhed joined the CPI in 1940 and was part of communist movements led by different generations. He opposed the opportunistic policies of the CPI in the 1970s and joined the CPI (ML). He played an important role in the Sathi Farm Struggle during the 1960s. He was a victim of repression by the Congress government and was jailed for a long period when he protested against police repression in Motihari. He played an important role in the land struggles against feudal forces in Dhokraha, Majholiya block for which he was sentenced to jail. He was beaten up badly by feudal forces in Bharwaliya.
He took part in the protest against the Majholiya sugar mills for under-weighing of sugar cane and beat the Manger of the mill during the struggle, for which he was beaten and jailed by the police. He also agitated against feudal forces in his own village Semra and fought to make the village a place of dignity for the poor and oppressed. He went to jail several times and his home was attached many times, but he never forsook the red flag. He was known in the villages of Majholiya, Chanpatiya and Sikta as an upright and brave communist warrior. The CPI (ML) is grieved at his passing and stands with his family and all the people who loved and respected him. He will always remain an inspiration for us. Red salute to Com Nakchhed Shah!
