Odishatv Bureau

Bhubaneswar: With the announcement of poll dates, Maoists have started unleashing their terror plan in the red corridor in Odisha. The sudden spurt in Maoist incidents has not only raised eyebrows but also throws a grave challenge to the security establishment here.

Maoists have killed a contractor barbarically and destroyed a JCB machine and Haiwa at Sheraguda in Malkangiri. The red rebels of Vamsadhara Ghumsur Nagabali Divisonal Committee have put up posters on Sakungiya highway under Baliguda police limits calling for poll boycott and urged villagers help installing a 'Revolutionary' Government. On the other hand, security forces have neutralised two Maoists in a gun battle at Pedrandopalli forests on Odisha - Andhra border.

In view of increased Left Wing Extremist (LWE) activities, district administrations in LWE hit districts have come up with a blue print to complete the democratic process smoothly. Election Commission (EC) has announced a four-phase poll in Odisha to optimally deploy the central armed police forces (CAPF) to conduct violent free polls in LWE hit areas. A total of 29 companies of CAPF will be deployed during the first phase polls in Odisha. "A change in poll timings in LWE hit areas has been suggested to EC," informed Surendra Kumar, Chief Electoral Officer, Odisha.

Meanwhile, DGP Rajendra Sharma informed that police will ensure strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for political leaders going for campaign in Maoist hit areas. Besides, Odisha police will also coordinate with the police of neighbouring States to keep a track on activities and movement of red rebels.

It is pertinent to mention that during recent Chhattisgarh elections Maoists targeted a DoorDarshan Cameraman Achyut Sahu from Odisha. In such challenging context, how Odisha police deals with red rebels in coming days remains to be seen.

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