Argus News - Odisha Confirms 40 Active Maoists across Six Districts

Bhubaneswar, Feb 23: Amid the anti-Maoist operation across India, including Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has informed the Assembly that the situation has improved greatly.

According to the updates shared by CM Majhi, around 40 active Maoists are currently operating in small groups across several districts — Kalahandi, Rayagada, Kandhamal, Boudh, Balangir, and Bargarh. “These groups remain scattered and less organized compared to earlier years, reflecting a decline in Maoist influence,” stated CM Majhi.

Under the Centre’s Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme, Kandhamal has been categorized as “Other LWE Affected District,” while eight districts including Malkangiri, Koraput, Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Boudh, and Balangir are listed as “Legacy & Thrust Districts.”

Also read: Indian Army Rescues 46 Tourists in Sikkim Snowstorm under ‘Operation Himrahat’

This classification underscores the government’s continued focus on monitoring and addressing Maoist activity in vulnerable regions.

Meanwhile, political tensions flared in the Odisha Assembly over farmers’ issues, including the procurement of paddy. Opposition parties staged noisy protests, accusing the government of irregularities in paddy procurement.

Responding to the uproar, BJP MLA Ashok Mohanty slammed the opposition for creating unnecessary disruption instead of engaging in constructive debate. “The government has already procured 63 lakh metric tonnes of paddy in the 2024-25 season, surpassing the 55 lakh metric tonnes purchased by the previous administration,” claimed Mohanty.

“Around 14.83 lakh farmers have successfully sold their paddy,” added the BJP MLA, assuring that all tokens will be cleared by March 31. He insisted that farmers are satisfied with the procurement process and accused the opposition of misleading the public.

Earlier, to restore order in the Assembly, Speaker Surama Padhy convened an all-party meeting, urging cooperation for smooth functioning of the House. Despite repeated appeals, noisy scenes continued during Zero Hour, forcing the Speaker to adjourn proceedings until 12:13 pm.