Karnataka chief minister S.M. Krishna had played dead bat to suggestions for a punitivestrike against Veerappan during the 108 days Dr Rajkumar spent as the brigandsquarry. But within a week of the revered thespian walking free, the CM has initiatedassertive steps to eliminate the bandit and sever the gangs bonds with pro-ltte forain Karnataka. And to pack more power in this assault against the man whos tormentedhim most, Krishna will seek the help of the commandos of the National Security Guards.