Top Maoist Leader Killed by Own Cadres in Kandhamal Over Surrender Plan

Kandhamal: In a dramatic turn of events deep inside the Pakari reserve forest under Daringibadi police limits in Kandhamal district, a top Maoist leader was allegedly killed by his own associates after he planned to surrender before the police.

The deceased has been identified as Anwesh, the area party commander of the KKBN group. According to sources, Anwesh was preparing to surrender along with 12 of his associates under the state government’s rehabilitation policy. However, his plan was reportedly opposed by most-wanted Maoist Sukru and other cadres.

A confrontation broke out between Sukru and Anwesh, which escalated into violence. Anwesh was allegedly killed during the clash and buried inside the forest by his fellow Maoists.

Acting on intelligence inputs, security forces led by Baliguda SDPO Shubham Bhosale launched an operation in the area, recovered the body, and sent it for forensic examination.

The Odisha government had earlier announced a reward of ₹22 lakh on Anwesh for his surrender.

Kandhamal SP Harisha BC has appealed to Maoists active in the region to lay down arms and take advantage of the government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy. He reiterated that those willing to join the mainstream would be provided protection and support.

The incident underscores the growing internal rifts within Maoist ranks and highlights the continued efforts of security forces to curb extremism in the state.