Tight security across six districts for Republic Day

Koraput: With Republic Day on Monday, police have strengthened security across Koraput, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi and Nuapada districts, officials said on Saturday. Although there are no specific intelligence inputs pointing to any imminent Maoist violence, the police and paramilitary forces have adopted a cautious approach to ensure peaceful celebrations and to prevent any untoward incidents.

Deputy inspector general of police (south-western range) Kanwar Vishal Singh said a comprehensive three-tier security cover has been put in place at strategic locations, key town centres and remote border areas adjoining Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh. Adequate personnel from the Special Operation Group (SOG), District Voluntary Force (DVF), Odisha police and the Border Security Force (BSF) have been deployed to maintain a strong vigil and quick response capability.




“While security forces remain on alert round the year, keeping in view the Republic Day celebrations our intelligence networks have been reinforced and checkpoints and patrols have been intensified along vulnerable stretches. Our priority is to ensure that the festivities pass off peacefully and that people feel safe,” the DIG said, adding that the overall law and order situation is under control. He said regular liaison with community leaders and local volunteers has been stepped up to encourage cooperation and timely sharing of information on suspicious movements.

Though Maoist activities in Odisha have declined in recent months, the threat from sleeper cells of the banned CPI (Maoist) still persists in the interior pockets. In a major development in late Dec, 22 Maoist cadres, including senior members, surrendered before the police in Malkangiri district and handed over their weapons, giving a significant boost to anti-insurgency efforts.

Officials said sustained operations over the past year have weakened extremist networks, with more cadres coming forward under the govt’s surrender and rehabilitation schemes. Recently, Nabarangpur district was declared Maoist-free, while earlier Nuapada had also received the same status, reflecting improved security conditions in the region.

Despite these gains, police said there is no room for complacency due to the rugged terrain and the historical presence of Left-wing extremists in parts of Koraput and Malkangiri. “We have urged people to cooperate with security forces and immediately report any unusual activity as the Republic Day celebrations approach,” the DIG said.