Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday informed the Assembly that the State is close to becoming completely free of Maoist influence. Only 15 Maoists remain active, confined to the border areas of Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Rayagada districts, he informed.
In a written reply, Majhi highlighted that 96 Maoists and militia members surrendered in the past two years. Kandhamal continues to be considered Maoist-affected, while eight districts—Boudh, Balangir, Kalahandi, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Nuapada, and Rayagada—are categorised as “Legacy and Thrust” districts due to historical Maoist presence and developmental focus.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Odisha will achieve Maoist-free status by March 31, 2026. He emphasised that intensified security operations and development initiatives have weakened Maoist networks across the state.