Odisha Police officers recount anti-Naxal operations in Malkangiri forests

Odisha Police officers share experiences fighting Naxals in Malkangiri forests.

Assistant Sub-Inspector of Police Siva Shankar Nayak and Subrat Majhi, deployed in anti-Naxal operations in Odisha, recall their experiences in Malkangiri. Malkangiri, bordering Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, was a stronghold for Maoists. The officers trained with the Greyhounds.

Between 2005 and 2015, no one felt safe, walking 70 km in teams. Communication with families was difficult. In 2008, a landmine blast killed 17 personnel.

Today, Naxal numbers have dwindled. Efforts are focused on building trust with local communities.

Key Facts

Assistant Sub-Inspector Siva Shankar Nayak has earned six police medals for gallantry.

Subrat Majhi has also earned six gallantry medals.

Malkangiri borders Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh.

Between 2005 and 2015, police officers would walk 70 km in teams in anti-Naxal operations.

In 2008, a landmine blast killed 17 personnel.

Naxal numbers have dwindled to fewer than 40.

In Simple Words

This news is about police officers in Odisha who fought Naxals in the Malkangiri forests. These officers recall how dangerous it was, with constant threats of landmines and attacks. Now, the number of Naxals has gone down, and the police are working to gain the trust of the local people.

India Angle

Naxal areas often lack basic facilities like roads, schools, and hospitals. This makes it easier for Naxals to gain support from the locals. The police try to build trust by helping with development and providing security.

For Instance

Imagine a village where people are afraid to report crimes because they fear retaliation from local gangs. The police need to build trust by being present, responsive, and fair, so people feel safe enough to cooperate.

Naxalism affects everyone because it disrupts development, creates fear, and costs the government money. When these areas are peaceful, the government can focus on building roads, schools, and hospitals, which benefits everyone.

Peace in Naxal areas means progress for all.

Visual Insights

Malkangiri: Site of Anti-Naxal Operations

Map showing Malkangiri, Odisha, bordering Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, a former Naxal stronghold. The Greyhounds training location is also marked.

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📍Odisha📍Chhattisgarh📍Andhra Pradesh