Odisha Nears Maoist-Free Status, CM Confident of 2026 Deadline

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has declared that the state is on the verge of becoming Maoist-free, with only 15 insurgents remaining active in the border areas of Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Rayagada districts.

Speaking in the Assembly, Majhi highlighted that 96 Maoists and militia members have surrendered over the past two years, signalling the weakening of extremist networks.

Kandhamal continues to be classified as Maoist-affected, while eight districts — Boudh, Balangir, Kalahandi, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Nuapada, and Rayagada — remain under the “Legacy and Thrust” category due to their history of insurgency and ongoing development focus.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Odisha will achieve Maoist-free status by March 31, 2026, attributing the progress to intensified security operations and sustained development initiatives.