Major Maoist Leader Killed in Odisha Anti-Naxal Operation

In a significant development in the fight against Maoist insurgency, security forces in Odisha have killed Ganesh Uike, a senior leader of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), during an encounter on Thursday in Kandhamal district. Uike, who was 69 years old and a member of the Maoist central committee, had a bounty of Rs 1.1 crore on his head, highlighting his prominence within the insurgent group.

The encounter took place in the forested area of Chakapada police limits, near the border of Ganjam and Kandhamal districts. According to Sanjeeb Panda, Additional Director General of Police for anti-Naxal operations, the clash resulted in the deaths of four Maoists, including two women. Two INSAS rifles and a .303 rifle were also confiscated from the scene.

This operation is notable as it marks the first time a central committee member has been neutralised in Odisha in recent years. Uike, who was known by various aliases such as Pakka Hanumantu and Rupa, was originally from Nalgonda district in Telangana. His leadership role in the Odisha region made him a key target for security forces.

The operation was executed in collaboration with multiple security agencies, including the Odisha Special Operations Group, the Central Reserve Police Force, and the Border Security Force. The ongoing operation has reportedly resulted in the deaths of six Maoists in total over the past two days, indicating a significant blow to the insurgent group in the area.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah commented on the operation, stating, "With this major breakthrough, Odisha stands at the threshold of becoming completely free from Naxalism. We are resolved to eliminate Naxalism before the 31st of March 2026.”

Prior to Uike's death, 22 Maoists had surrendered in Malkangiri district, suggesting a weakening of insurgent resolve in the region. Police officials stated that combing operations are ongoing in the area to ensure that no additional insurgents remain active.

Security forces have been intensifying their efforts against Maoist factions, particularly in the Odisha-Chhattisgarh-Maharashtra corridor, where Uike had been known to operate for over a decade, engaging in armed operations and recruitment activities.

The success of this operation has been seen as a crucial step in the government’s efforts to combat Naxalism, which has affected various parts of India for decades. Authorities continue to monitor the situation in Kandhamal and surrounding areas closely, aiming to dismantle remaining Maoist networks.