By Our Correspondent
KORAPUT/MALKANGIRI: Once considered to be the Headquarter of Andhra Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC) of CPI (Maoist), the Swabhiman Anchal (Cut-off area) from Jantri to Ralegada under Malkangiri district was the stronghold of the banned outfit for more than 2 decades until recently when things changed dramatically due to continuous efforts of government administration and security forces.
Maoists used to oppose celebration of days of national importance like Independence Day and Republic Day by hoisting black flags. Hoisting of the Tricolour and other programs were not allowed even in government office premises. Instead the Maoists resort to widespread violence on these occasions. The situation in Mahupadar – Temurupally axis (Tulasi axis) was also same.
But, due to strong conviction and commitment of the government, police and administration could turn around the scenario and this year a new picture of Swabhiman Anchal can be seen. Initiatives were taken both in terms of security aspect and development aspect. Several security camps were established in the remotest parts of Swabhiman anchal & Mahupadar axis and massive operations were conducted continuously by police in those area. Several development projects were launched by the government including roads, cell phone towers, ambulance service, drinking water project etc. Several welfare schemes were also launched by the government including distribution of smart phones to the local villagers.
With all these steps, the Maoists gradually lost their ground and have to vacate these area. As the locals tasted the benefits of government welfare programs and felt a sense of safety due to efforts of police, they are now disenchanted towards the Maoist ideology and supporting the government by joining the mainstream.
Responding to the appeal of government to observe “Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav”, the locals of Swabhiman Anchal and Mahupadar axis of malkangiri district are wholeheartedly participating in the celebration of India’s 76Th Independence Day – 2022. They are voluntarily hoisting Indian National flag at their home, organizing Tiranga rallies.
National flags were hoisted at all the schools and offices, houses, boats in these area including remotest villages like Jantri, Ralegada, Sarukabandh, Dhuliput, Andrapalli, Panasput, Papermetla, Jodambo for the first time in the last 3 decades, which are situated adjacent to AP border. Similar pictures are coming from the Maoist affected area of Koraput district also. Locals of Ramagiri-Dandabadi axis, Narayanpatna, Bandhugaon, Padua area of Koraput district are widely participating in the celebration of “Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav”.The local people are voluntarily celebrating “Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav” and even coming to the security camps to encourage the jawans.
