Most-Wanted Maoist Leader Sukru Surrenders in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: In a major breakthrough in Odisha’s ongoing anti-Maoist operations, Shukri, one of the most wanted Maoist leaders, surrendered before security forces in Kandhamal district on Tuesday. Four other Maoists also laid down their arms with him, marking an important step towards containing left-wing extremism in the state.

Confirming the development, Anti-Naxal Director General of Police Sanjeeb Panda said that Shukru had been on the radar of security agencies for a long time due to his deep involvement in insurgent activities in Kandhamal and neighboring areas. Carrying a bounty worth Rs 55 lakh, he was considered an important figure in the Maoist hierarchy. His surrender is seen as a major success for security forces who are constantly involved in operations in the region.

The development comes after Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed the State Legislative Assembly that the Maoist presence in Odisha has reduced sharply and only around 15 cadres are reportedly still active. He noted that the remaining insurgents were largely confined to the forest junctions of Kandhamal, Kalahandi and Rayagada districts and no recent Maoist activity was reported from other parts of the state.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the surrender of 96 Maoists and militia members by March 15 and attributed this trend to intensified security operations and effective rehabilitation measures. Despite the progress, Kandhamal continues to be classified as a Maoist-affected area due to its difficult terrain and strategic location.

Reinforcing the state’s resolve, Director General of Police YB Khurania said that a major operation was ongoing in the triple junction area. He described the recent rescue of the Maoist arms depot in Kandhamal as a significant breakthrough in dismantling the rebel network.

“We are confident of meeting the March 31 deadline to eliminate the Naxal problem in Odisha,” Khurania said, adding that vigilance has been increased along the inter-state borders with Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand to prevent infiltration.

Coordinated multi-state operations are ongoing and Odisha remains on high alert to completely eliminate Maoist influence, officials said.