Jharkhand intensifies crackdown to wipe out Maoists before monsoon

State, Central forces push for Maoist elimination ahead of Centre’s 2026 deadline

Mail News Service

Ranchi, May 5: While the Central Government has set a target to eliminate Maoist influence across the country by 31 March 2026, Jharkhand Police is accelerating efforts to neutralize Maoists in the state even earlier—by the onset of the monsoon this year. A joint operation, involving the state police and central security forces, is underway to dismantle remaining Maoist strongholds, particularly in the Kolhan and Saranda regions.

According to Jharkhand Police, Maoists have been largely restricted to pockets in Tonto and Goilkera due to continuous pressure from newly established security camps. “We have not only taken control of previously Maoist-dominated areas but are now focusing on keeping these zones free from future influence,” a senior police official stated.

Top Maoist leaders including Politburo member Misir Besra (carrying a reward of Rs 1 crore), Central Committee members Patiram Manjhi alias Anal, Asim Mandal, Ajay Mahato, Sagen Angaria and others like Pintu Lohra, Amit Hansda alias Uptan and Rapa Munda, are still active in Kolhan. A targeted operation is being executed against each of them, with intelligence networks closely tracking their movements.

The police headquarters has directed all Superintendents of Police to prevent arson and extortion by Maoist or splinter groups. Instructions have also been issued to install CCTV surveillance in government and private establishments vulnerable to Maoist threats. “Local intelligence has been asked to build a solid informer network. FIRs must be registered immediately on reports of levy demands,” a senior police directive noted.

A significant blow was dealt to Maoist efforts to regroup in North Chotanagpur when eight extremists, including Central Committee member Prayag Manjhi, were killed in an encounter at Lugu Hills. This encounter thwarted plans to recruit new cadres and reestablish lost bases.

Currently, only a few Maoist figures like Parvesh and Veersen alias Chanchal remain with active squads. The influence of CPI-Maoist has significantly weakened across previously volatile areas like Parasnath, Jhumra and Lugu Hills, marking a critical success in the ongoing anti-Naxal campaign.