Andhra-Odisha Border on High Alert Ahead of CPI Maoist Foundation Week
Border districts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are on high alert. The CPI (Maoist) party will mark its 21st foundation week from Sunday until September 27. Authorities fear the celebrations could boost recruitment and mobilization.
Pamphlets calling for nationwide participation were distributed on Saturday in Venkatapuram mandal in Mulugu district of Telangana. Maoists are also planning village meetings along the Andhra-Odisha border. They aim to highlight government policies and the ongoing Operation Kagar.
Security forces have increased their presence. A senior police official said, “Special forces are deployed across forests and villages. We are conducting forest combing operations, vehicle checks round-the-clock, and deploying bomb squads at key routes.”
Another official added, “Our teams monitor suspected Maoist movements. Vehicles traveling from Odisha to Rajahmundry and Telangana via Sileru are stopped and occupants questioned. These measures protect residents and maintain law and order.”
The heightened security has raised tension in tribal villages along the border. Police said they are coordinating closely with district authorities and intelligence units to contain any disruptions.
The Maoist movement in the region began in 1967 with the Srikakulam Raitanga Porata Samiti. It later evolved into the People’s War Group under Kondapalli Sitaram. On September 21, 2004, eighteen regional armed groups merged with the Nepal Maoist Party to form the CPI (Maoist).
Despite setbacks from Operation Kagar, which led to deaths, arrests, and surrenders of several leaders and cadres, the party continues its activities. A senior intelligence official said, “We are monitoring recruitment drives and village assemblies during the foundation week. Our priority is to prevent any escalation of violence.”
Officials also stressed community engagement. A district police officer said, “We are working with local administration and tribal leaders to keep residents informed and safe. Early detection and preventive patrolling remain our main strategies.”