**Odisha Achieves Significant Milestone: Two More Districts Declared Naxal-Free**
**Bhubaneswar, Odisha** – In a significant development for the state’s long-standing fight against Left Wing Extremism (LWE), Odisha Police has officially declared Deogarh and Sambalpur districts as Naxal-free. This announcement marks a pivotal moment, underscoring the success of a multi-pronged strategy that has combined stringent security operations with focused socio-economic development initiatives.
The declaration, made by the state’s top police brass, signifies the complete absence of Naxal activities, camps, or any significant presence of extremist groups within these two regions. For years, parts of Deogarh and Sambalpur were considered to be affected by LWE, experiencing sporadic incidents and attempts by Maoist cadres to establish footholds, particularly in their remote and forested areas.
Authorities attributed this success to relentless efforts by the state police, including the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the District Voluntary Force (DVF), working in close coordination with central paramilitary forces. Intensive intelligence gathering, targeted anti-Naxal operations, and continuous patrolling have systematically dismantled the extremist network in these areas. The proactive engagement with local communities, winning their trust and confidence, also played a crucial role in isolating the insurgents and stemming their recruitment.
A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted the dual approach: “It was not merely about force. While security operations were critical to dislodge their presence, true success came from addressing the root causes. Development projects, better connectivity, access to healthcare, and educational opportunities in previously neglected zones have truly empowered the local populace and turned them away from extremist ideologies.”
Indeed, the state government’s commitment to development in LWE-affected areas has been instrumental. Roads have been built into previously inaccessible regions, health camps organized, and schools established, integrating these remote communities into the mainstream. Furthermore, a robust surrender and rehabilitation policy encouraged many disillusioned cadres to lay down arms and return to a normal life, further weakening the Maoist structure.
The declaration of Deogarh and Sambalpur as Naxal-free significantly reduces the geographical footprint of LWE in Odisha. The state has historically been one of the most affected by Maoist insurgency, particularly in its southern and western districts. This latest achievement reflects a consistent downward trend in Naxal-related violence and activities across Odisha over the past decade.
For Omni 360 News, this development presents a comprehensive view of Odisha’s journey from being a hotspot of extremist activity to a state making significant strides towards complete peace and stability. While districts like Malkangiri, Koraput, Kandhamal, and Nuapada continue to remain on the radar for police and security forces, the progress in Deogarh and Sambalpur offers a blueprint for effectively countering the menace.
The absence of Naxal fear is expected to usher in an era of accelerated development and investment in these regions. Local businesses can flourish, tourism can be promoted, and vital infrastructure projects can proceed without hindrance, directly improving the quality of life for thousands of citizens. It stands as a testament to the perseverance and strategic foresight of the Odisha Police and the state administration in ensuring the safety and progress of its people. The journey towards a completely Naxal-free Odisha continues, bolstered by such significant victories.
