Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania officially declared Odisha completely free from Left Wing Extremism following sustained counter-insurgency operations.
The milestone was highlighted during a medal distribution ceremony at the Civic Centre in Rourkela, where he praised the collective efforts of the police, Special Operations Group (SOG), and central forces like the CRPF.
While active Maoist presence within state boundaries has been eliminated, the DGP noted that the administration will not let its guard down.
Security forces continue to maintain a strict vigil along interstate borders—particularly along the Saranda forest area in Jharkhand—to prevent any infiltration or resurgence of extremist elements.
”We have not withdrawn police camps in areas once dominated by Maoists, but we can confidently say that Odisha is now free from Maoist activities,” Khurania stated.
Emerging Challenges: Cybercrime and Substance Abuse
In addition to addressing internal security, the DGP outlined the new operational priorities for the Odisha Police, focusing on digital safety and public health:
- Combatting Cybercrime: With cyber fraud emerging as a major threat, police forces conducted extensive drives between January and February 2026. This resulted in the scrutiny of over 45,000 bank accounts, notices issued to more than 7,000 individuals, and the arrest of 350 cybercriminals. Dedicated cyber and economic offense units will be established in all major district headquarters over the next year.
- Drug-Free Odisha Campaign: To curb substance abuse, a statewide anti-drug drive was launched on April 1, 2026, and will remain active for the next three years to support community well-being and youth safety.
