Villagers in Malkangiri district have demolished more than 20 Maoist “martyr columns” across Mathili, Kalimela, Khairaput, and Chitrakonda.
These memorials, built years ago by CPI (Maoist) cadres, once stood as reminders of insurgent violence and rebel dominance in the region.
Residents said they no longer want to see remnants of the rebel presence in their communities. They credited government welfare schemes, infrastructure development, and improved connectivity for transforming the district. “Peace has now prevailed everywhere. Violence has come to an end, and we don’t want any signs of the rebels anymore,” villagers stated.
The demolished structures were located in areas once considered Maoist strongholds due to their proximity to Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh. These “cut‑off” zones, now known as Swabhiman Anchal, had witnessed ambushes, abductions, and clashes for decades.
The initiative comes after Malkangiri was officially declared Maoist‑free earlier this year. The declaration followed the surrender of key commanders, sustained security operations, and developmental outreach programs.
