In a significant blow to Left-wing extremism, Odisha police have commended over 575 security personnel for executing two successful operations in Kandhamal district, resulting in the death of six Maoists, including a top-ranking central committee member.
A Landmark Victory in a Three-Decade Long Fight
The twin encounters, which unfolded on December 24 and 25, represent a pivotal moment in Odisha's prolonged battle against Naxalism, spanning over thirty years. The first operation on December 24 led to the gunning down of two insurgents, one of whom was an area committee member. The following day, the forces achieved an even more critical breakthrough.
On December 25, security forces eliminated Ganesh Uike, a senior Central Committee (CC) member of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) who was in charge of the group's affairs in Odisha. He was killed along with three of his aides. This marks the first time a Maoist of such a high rank has been neutralised in the state; no one of Uike's seniority had ever been arrested or had surrendered in Odisha previously.
Exemplary Coordination and Courage in Inhospitable Terrain
Authorities have hailed the meticulous planning and bravery displayed by the combined forces. Sanjeeb Panda, the Additional Director General (anti-Naxal operations), along with DIG (Special Intelligence Wing) Akhileshvar Singh, visited Kandhamal to commend the troops. Panda stated that the Special Operations Group (SOG) commandos displayed exemplary courage and commitment in challenging terrain, with support from CRPF and BSF teams.
Providing operational details, Kandhamal Superintendent of Police Harish B C revealed that the twin missions lasted nearly 72 hours. A total of 23 teams were deployed, comprising 20 SOG, 2 CRPF, and 1 BSF unit. The operations were launched based on specific intelligence inputs from the Special Intelligence Wing (SIW).
Fortifying the Region and a Stern Warning
In the aftermath, security has been further tightened in Kandhamal to curb Maoist movement. The district has been fortified with four new BSF Company Operating Bases (COBs) established at vulnerable points. SP Harish confirmed that plans for subsequent operations are already in place.
Issuing a stern warning, ADG Sanjeeb Panda said Maoists indulging in violence would face similar encounters. He urged insurgents to surrender, aligning the state's efforts with the Centre's target to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026. Panda identified Kandhamal, Rayagada, Kalahandi, and Boudh as the districts where Maoists remain active in Odisha, confirming that the security focus is concentrated on these regions.
The elimination of Ganesh Uike, considered a key strategist for the Maoist movement, is seen as a major morale booster for Odisha's security forces and a substantial setback for the insurgent network in the state.
