BJD Accuses BJP Govt of Failing to Curb Maoist Resurgence in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Saturday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in Odisha of failing to contain the resurgence of Maoist activities in the state, particularly in the districts of Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Keonjhar.

Addressing a press conference, senior BJD leader and former minister Priti Ranjan Ghadai alleged that Naxal activities have increased over the past 10 months since the BJP came to power in the state. “Reports suggest that Maoists have been recruiting new cadres and extorting money from locals in these districts. Despite repeated media reports, the state government has shown no urgency in addressing the issue,” Ghadai said.

He further claimed that during the BJD’s tenure, Maoist violence had significantly declined and Odisha was even declared a Maoist-free state in 2013. “The current resurgence is both unfortunate and alarming. It reverses years of progress made by successive BJD governments in ensuring internal security,” he added.

Ghadai warned that the deteriorating law and order situation could impact Odisha’s development prospects, particularly in areas earmarked for major industrial investments. “Several investment proposals are in the pipeline for Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Keonjhar. A rise in Maoist activity may deter potential investors from these regions,” he stated.

The BJD demanded immediate and effective action from the BJP government to restore peace and safeguard the state’s investment climate.