Naxal scare forces red alert in Orissa

A RED alert has been sounded in Naxal-sensitive areas of Rayagada, Malkangiri and Koraput districts in the wake of PWG’s preparation to observe Martyrs’ Week from July 28. Sources said Naxals of different dalams and PWG cadre have geared up activities in Gudari, Gunupur, Ravanaguda, Gathalpadar, Chandili, Motu, Podia, Kalimela, Chitrokonda, Janvai, MV 79, Naryanpatana, Bandhugam and Nandpuar villages bordering Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to observe Martyrs’ Week from July 28 to August 5.

Ultras have distributed anti-government pamphlets in parts of Rayagada district on Monday and were seen motivating tribals to join their fold. Sources said the district administrations of Rayagada, Malkangiri and Koraput have been alerted by Intelligence sleuths about PWG plans to target government properties in the next couple of days. The ultras may attack panchayat offices, banks, police stations, buses and police officials. The local PWG wing has held several meetings to chalk out strategy in Malkangiri and Rayagada during the past few days, sources added.

The police machinery in Malkangiri and Rayagada have been geared up and special patrolling is on in vulnerable pockets. Vehicles and people suspected of Naxal links are being checked. Malkangiri SP S.D. Singh said police would give a befitting reply if there was any Naxal attack.