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Nabarangpur District: Odisha has achieved a significant internal security milestone as Nabarangpur district has officially been declared free from Naxal activity. This development follows the surrender of nine Maoists in neighbouring Chhattisgarh, marking a turning point for a region that once witnessed intense left-wing extremism. According to police officials, this surrender has effectively ended organised Maoist presence in the district, reinforcing the success of sustained counter-insurgency efforts.

Maoist Surrender Changes Security Landscape

The surrendered Maoists included seven women, highlighting a notable aspect of the development as female cadres have traditionally played operational roles in insurgent networks. Collectively, these individuals carried a reward amounting to Rs 47 lakh, indicating their high rank and active involvement in extremist operations. Security agencies confirmed that the group had been operating across Nabarangpur in Odisha and the Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh, using forested border areas for movement and shelter.

Official Confirmation of Naxal Free Status

Police authorities stated that with the surrender of these Maoists, there are no longer any active Naxal cadres operating within Nabarangpur district. This declaration comes after years of coordinated efforts involving intelligence-based operations, area domination exercises, and development-driven strategies aimed at weakening extremist influence. Officials described the achievement as a result of both enforcement action and rehabilitation-focused surrender policies.

History of Naxal Violence in Nabarangpur

Nabarangpur has a long history of Maoist-related violence that once made it a sensitive security zone. One of the most significant incidents occurred on September 24, 2011, when a sitting legislator and his personal security officer were assassinated by Maoists, sending shockwaves across the state. Earlier, in July 2010, extremists had attacked the Kundei police station, underscoring their operational strength during that period.

Decline in Extremist Activity After 2011

Despite its troubled past, the district has not witnessed any major Maoist incidents since 2011. Security officials attribute this decline to improved policing, better coordination between state forces, and enhanced community engagement. Infrastructure development, road connectivity, and welfare schemes are also believed to have played a role in reducing local support for extremist groups.

Maoist Presence Limited to Few Districts

With Nabarangpur now declared Naxal free, Maoist influence in Odisha has been reduced to limited pockets in only seven districts. These include Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Bolangir, Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, and Boudh. Authorities noted that even in these areas, extremist activity has significantly declined compared to previous years.

Alignment With National Security Targets

The development aligns closely with the central government’s objective of eliminating left-wing extremism from the country by the end of March. Officials described the clearance of Nabarangpur as a major achievement toward this national goal, emphasizing that continued vigilance and development-focused governance will be essential to maintain long-term peace.