Major operation launched against hardcore Maoist Shukru in Odisha’s Kandhamal

Security forces have intensified operations against a hardcore Maoist leader identified as Shukru, who is reportedly emerging as a major obstacle in Odisha’s anti-Maoist campaign.

According to sources, Shukru has allegedly been targeting fellow Maoists who are attempting to surrender and join the mainstream. 
Instead of allowing them to leave the armed movement, he is accused of eliminating them. The recent killing of a cadre named Anvesh in the Kandhamal forests has raised concerns about growing internal dissent within the Maoist ranks.

Officials said Shukru is currently active in the Kandhamal region along with nearly 30 armed cadres, including two top members of the KKBN division. Intelligence inputs suggest that the group is trying to regroup and strengthen its presence in forested pockets considered strategically important.

In response, the Odisha Police have prepared a special operational blueprint to neutralise Shukru and his associates. A large-scale combing operation has been underway since February 20, with security personnel tightening the cordon in suspected hideouts inside the Kandhamal forest.

Sources said aerial surveillance using drones is being deployed to track the movement of the Maoist leader. Additionally, 13 new Special Operations Group (SOG) teams are set to be inducted into the forest area to intensify the search operation.

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Security officials remain tight-lipped about specific strategies but indicated that sustained pressure would continue until the group is dismantled.