Security forces in Odisha achieved a major success with the killing of six Naxals, including top commander Ganesh Uike, in two separate encounters. Uike, who carried a bounty of ₹1.1 crore, was one of the most wanted Maoist leaders in the country.
According to official reports, the first encounter took place in the dense forests of Malkangiri district, where a joint team of the Special Operations Group (SOG) and District Voluntary Force (DVF) engaged with armed Maoists. Ganesh Uike was neutralized during this operation, marking a significant blow to the Maoist network in the region.
In a separate incident in the neighbouring district of Koraput, security forces confronted another group of Naxals. The exchange of fire led to the elimination of five cadres. Arms, ammunition, and incriminating materials were recovered from both sites.
Ganesh Uike was regarded as a central committee member of the CPI (Maoist) and was instrumental in planning and executing several violent attacks across Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. His death is expected to weaken Maoist operations in eastern India considerably.
Senior officials hailed the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against left-wing extremism. They emphasized that the coordinated efforts of Odisha Police and specialized anti-Naxal units have significantly improved security in the affected districts.
The successful encounters come at a time when security forces have intensified operations against Maoist strongholds in Odisha. Authorities believe the elimination of Uike and his associates will boost confidence among local communities and help restore peace in the region.
