Phulbani, March 21: The Centre has fixed March 31 as the deadline to eliminate Maoist activities across the country, stepping up pressure on insurgent groups. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has repeatedly appealed to Maoists to surrender, while also warning of strict action against those who fail to comply.
Even as several top Maoist leaders have been neutralised in encounters or have laid down arms, a number of key figures continue to remain active. In Odisha, Maoist leader Shukru is still operating, particularly in Kandhamal district. Originally from Malkangiri, he is suspected to be involved in the conspiracy behind the killing of Maoist leader Anvesh. A reward of ₹55 lakh has been announced for his capture. Shukru, along with Sila and around 11 cadres, is believed to be active in the forests of Kandhamal.
Police have prepared a major strategy to intensify operations against Maoists in Kandhamal, Rayagada and Kalahandi districts, the Director General of Police said. At the same time, authorities have assured full security and rehabilitation support to those who choose to surrender.
With barely 10 days left for the deadline, intelligence inputs suggest that some top Maoist leaders may consider returning to the mainstream. Among them is Ganapati, also known as Muppala Lakshma Rao, a Politburo member carrying a bounty of ₹2.5 crore, who is reportedly contemplating surrender.
Meanwhile, Misir Besra alias Sagar alias Bhaskar remains active along the Odisha-Jharkhand border with a reward of ₹1 crore on his head. Another senior leader, Madvi Hidma, has been repeatedly reported killed in encounters in the past, though no official confirmation has been made.
Kadar Satyanarayana Reddy alias Kosa, known for leading operations across multiple zones, is also among those still active. Several such leaders continue to evade security forces as the deadline approaches.
The Centre aims to declare India Maoist-free by March 31. Officials indicate that any continued insurgent activity beyond the deadline will be dealt with firmly, posing a critical challenge for both security forces and the remaining Maoist leadership.
