In a commendable achievement, the Odisha government has effectively curtailed Maoist insurgency, showcasing a remarkable decline in Naxal-related incidents during the year 2023. Data released by the state police headquarters on Saturday reveals a significant drop in violence compared to the previous four years, reflecting the success of robust security measures.
In 2023, the state recorded 14 incidents of Naxal violence, a considerable reduction from 27 in 2022, 28 in 2021, 41 in 2020, and 44 in 2019. The year also witnessed a decline in confrontations between security forces and Naxal insurgents, with five exchanges of fire reported, compared to 13 in 2022, 22 in 2021, 27 in 2020, and 14 in 2019.
Civilian and security personnel casualties displayed a downward trend in 2023. Three civilians lost their lives due to Naxal violence, down from eight in 2022, two in 2021, seven in 2020, and 10 in 2019. Notably, no security personnel were reported to have lost their lives in 2023, marking a positive shift from the previous years.
The operational success against Naxals is further evident in the neutralization of three Naxals in 2023, compared to seven each in 2022 and 2021, 17 in 2020, and eight in 2019. Police apprehended 13 Naxals in 2023, continuing the trend of declining numbers from 12 in 2022, 36 in 2021, 34 in 2020, and 50 in 2019. Additionally, five Naxals chose to surrender in 2023, contributing to the ongoing efforts to bring about a positive shift in affected regions.
Law enforcement agencies also seized a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from various Naxal-affected districts in the state in 2023. The seizures included 21 guns and 252 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), underscoring the significant strides made in neutralizing potential threats. This accomplishment reflects the dedication and effectiveness of the security measures implemented by the Odisha government to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Prasanta Patnaik