Everyone thinks that the Maoist menace is over in Telangana and is only confined to some border areas of Chhattisgarh. But their recent movements in the northern part of the state are a matter of tension for the police chiefs. There was an exchange of fire between Maoists and police in Manuguru forests in Bhadradri-Kothagudem district and Tiryani Mandal of Asifabad district as well. Although there has been no causality, police became alert and started combing operations since there is information that Maoists may target the ruling party MLAs in the tribal areas.
In Asifabad, five members of the banned Maoist party escaped. In an exchange of fire between Maoists and police in Kothagudem, the Maoists escaped from the spot and entered the forests. One greyhound (especially formed for anti-Maoist operations) constable was injured in the latter encounter.
The police suspect that the Maoists entered from Chhattisgarh forest by crossing the Godavari river. So in Kothagudem district, 500 greyhound forces are in combing operation as per the SP Sunil Dutt. He opined that they cannot cross the river back since its brimming due to recent rains. In Tiryani forests, 400 police are on Maoist operation. It looks like Maoists are regrouping in the rural areas of Telangana.
Telangana DGP Mahender Reddy plunged into action and reviewed with higher officials of north Telangana. He said, “There hasn’t been any Maoist activity in the Asifabad district for a decade. We came to know that five Maoists entered under the leadership of a Naxalite Bhaskar. We will catch them and curb such activities.” North Zone IG Nagi Reddy has asked the people to inform the police about any Maoist movement. As per some locals, the Maoists have been trying to recruit youth from the tribal villages. People of 30 tribal villages are in grip of fear due to Maoist and police activities.