Two suspected Maoists were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Odisha’s Boudh district on Thursday morning, police said. The incident occurred as the state prepares for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for May 13, 20, 25, and June 1. Director of intelligence, Soumendra Priyadarshi, stated that the bodies of two Maoist cadres were recovered by the elite anti-naxal force special operations group after an exchange of fire with a group of Maoists in Parhel reserve forest area of Boudh district. Priyadarshi added, “We are trying to identify them with the help of surrendered rebels. One more Maoist is also injured during the encounter. Explosives and arms such as under barrel grenade launcher have been seized from the spot.”
This incident marks the eighth such occurrence in Boudh within the past four months. According to the latest available data, three of Odisha’s districts – Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Malkangiri – are among the 25 ‘Most Affected Districts’ from eight states across the country. Odisha has recorded 154 incidences of Maoist violence between 2019 and 2023. As many as 71 exchanges of fires have taken place, resulting in the deaths of 42 Maoists and the arrest of 145 more. According to the state police, 63 Maoists have surrendered their arms while seven security force personnel lost their lives.
The gunfight in Boudh district highlights the ongoing challenges posed by Maoist activity in Odisha, particularly in the run-up to the upcoming elections. The security forces’ efforts to neutralize Maoist threats are essential for ensuring a peaceful and fair electoral process.
