Bhubaneswar, February 11: Odisha Police has ramped up its anti-Naxal operations to meet the March 26 deadline for eliminating left-wing extremism in the state. Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Sanjeeb Panda announced that security measures would be intensified, especially in the Maoist stronghold of Gandhamardan hills, with increased deployment of CRPF and Special Operations Group (SOG) forces.

Panda highlighted the presence of Maoists in the tri-junction of Kandhamal, Rayagada, and Kalahandi, where additional resources are being mobilized. He assured that all Maoists in the area would be neutralized or arrested before the target date.

Panda reiterated the government's dual approach of strong security actions and rehabilitation programs, urging remaining Maoists to surrender and return to mainstream society. He also noted significant progress in reducing Maoist influence, with districts like Nuapada, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri nearly Naxal-free, though Kandhamal remains a challenge.

Recent successes, including surrenders and encounters, have reduced the active Maoist presence in Odisha to fewer than 55.