Mail News Service
Ranchi: Several Maoist-affected districts in Jharkhand are now witnessing relative peace, with only isolated insurgents remaining. Districts including Bokaro, Giridih, Ranchi, Dhanbad, Palamu, Latehar, Seraikela, Garhwa, Lohardaga, Gumla, Simdega, Chatra and Hazaribagh report minimal Maoist activity.
State police have intelligence on 85 Maoists, including 45 with bounties. Of these, 65 insurgents are reportedly hiding in the Saranda forest, where security forces are conducting focused operations. Saranda also hosts the most significant high-value Maoist targets, with bounties ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 1 crore.
To strengthen the operation, Jharkhand Police, in coordination with Odisha Police, is establishing eight new security camps—five along the Jharkhand border and three in Odisha. Police officials have warned the Maoists to surrender under the state government’s surrender policy or face elimination. “Our objective is to neutralize all Maoist threats in the state by March 2026,” said a senior police officer.
This year alone, police have eliminated 32 Maoists. Those who have surrendered say many comrades are considering laying down arms, but a lack of trustworthy mediators is preventing them from returning to the mainstream. Police continue to tighten operations while offering a pathway for insurgents to surrender safely.
A police spokesperson said, “We are committed to restoring peace in Saranda and will continue our efforts to ensure the region is free from Maoist influence, combining strict action with opportunities for surrender.”
