Tensions have risen on the Andhra-Odisha border with the region witnessing increased Maoist activity of late. For the second time in a week, firing took place at the state border, causing the death of a Maoist. Police have not revealed the identity of the deceased yet.
The incident took place in the border area of G. Madugula in Vishakhapatnam. This has come only days ahead of “Maoist Martyrs Week”, which is supposed to start on 28 July. Previously, another instance of an exchange of fire between Maoists and the police had occurred in Killamkota on 19 July. Police sources have said that CPI (Maoist) leader RK had been present at the skirmish, and leader Chalapathi had likely been injured.
Sources have also said that the celebration of “Maoist Martyrs Week” has invited hundreds of Maoists to the OdishaAndhra border. The police and paramilitary forces have closed roads in the region and intensified combing operations as a response. Rallies with the support of tribal people in the area are anticipated during the Maoist celebrations.
According to the police, the Covid-19 lockdown and the consequent decrease in police movement have led to Maoists regrouping in the densely forested Andhra-Odisha border and northern Telangana. However, the Andhra Pradesh DGP has assured that the police are on high alert. “The Maoists have also been encouraging ganja cultivation in the tribal regions,” he added.
To create more awareness, police officials including the DGP have visited Maoist-affected areas and asked tribal residents to not shelter any Maoists.
