Odisha: Maoists to observe Martyrs’ week from today, borders sealed

Malkangiri: Borders of Odisha with neighbouring states Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Chhattisgarh have been sealed by security forces in view of the Martyrs’ week of Maoists, which will be observed by the extremists from today till August 3.

Police have started checking of vehicles at the border crossing points. This apart, identities of the persons crossing the borders are also being verified.

Combing operations by DVF and SOG jawans have been intensified in Maoist-affected districts of the state.

Benu, Secretary of Koraput-Malkangiri Border Division of the Maoist organisation, in an audiotape has urged the residents of the districts to observe the Martyrs’ week. The organisation has also accepted the deaths of over 50 Maoists in the last one year during exchange of fire with security forces.