Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: The growing strength of security forces in Jharkhand has significantly weakened the influence of the CPI Maoist organisation, with their activities now limited to a few districts. Over the past seven years, security operations have resulted in the elimination of 109 top Maoist leaders and the arrest of 846 cadres. These measures have led to a notable decline in Maoist activities across the state.
Significant Reduction in Maoist Activities
The deployment of security forces and enhanced intelligence gathering have confined Maoist operations to areas like West Singhbhum, Giridih, Gumla, Latehar, and Lohardaga. Once considered a stronghold, the Kolhan region has also seen a drastic reduction in Maoist presence.
•Maoist Casualties and Arrests (2018-2024):
•Eliminated: 109
•Arrested: 846
DGP’s Assurance: Complete Eradication in Three Months
Jharkhand’s Director General of Police (DGP), Anurag Gupta, expressed confidence in eradicating Maoists from West Singhbhum within the next three months. He highlighted that 95% of the Maoist problem in the state has already been resolved, and operations are ongoing to eliminate the remaining 5%.
Current Maoist Activity
•Only 11 Maoist squads remain active across districts like Chaibasa, Bokaro, Latehar, Chatra, and Palamu.
•Key Maoist leaders such as Misir Besra and Patiram Manjhi are reportedly hiding in the Saranda forest area.
Emergence of Smaller Criminal Groups
With the weakening of the CPI Maoist organisation, smaller criminal and extremist groups have become active in extortion and violent incidents. These groups are resorting to arson and threatening businessmen through WhatsApp calls.
Central Government’s Report on Maoist-Affected Districts
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, five districts in Jharkhand remain affected by Maoist activities:
1.West Singhbhum (classified as highly affected)
2.Giridih
3.Gumla
4.Latehar
5.Lohardaga
The state government, along with central forces, continues its efforts to completely eliminate Maoist influence and ensure sustainable development in affected regions.