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20 Maoists killed in Orissa offensive

Unofficial estimates say as many as 45 may have died in the state’s biggest ever operation

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Unofficial estimates say as many as 45 may have died in the state’s biggest ever operation

BHUBANESHWAR: With the assistance of the central paramilitary forces, including CRPF, special operation group and Andhra Pradesh’s Greyhounds, Orissa police has started the biggest ever combing operation against naxals.

Two choppers provided by Indian Air Force have been engaged for this purpose. “The choppers are being used to track the movement of naxals,” said Orissa home secretary TK Mishra. As many as 50 naxals and three jawans have been reportedly killed in the fighting. 

“Fierce fighting is ensuing between police forces and the naxals. They have so far been resisting the police attack. But, the police will achieve a major breakthrough soon,” Mishra said on Sunday, adding that combing operations would continue throughout the night. “

As per the official figure, the number naxal casualities is 20. Few among them are women. But casualties will increase,” he said.

Meanwhile, as directed by union home minister Shivraj Patil, a team comprising officials led by special secretary (home) reached Nayagarh to make a spot assessment of the situation.

Director general of police GC Nanda said the forces would continue the operation till the last naxal involved in the attack on Nayagarh police station and armoury is nabbed or killed. “Fighting is on near Gasma forest where a large number of naxals are camping,” said Nanda, adding that all the existing points-borders with Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh-have been sealed.

In order to boost the morale of police, chief minister Naveen Patnaik has announced an ex-gratia of Rs14 lakh, along with a 10-lakh insurance cover and a job for the deceased’s family.

subhashish_m@yahoo.com

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