Rourkela: Director General of Police (DGP) Y. B. Khurania on Friday said Odisha has become completely Maoist-free, marking the end of a three-decade-long insurgency challenge.
Speaking to journalists after attending the DGP Disc award ceremony at the Civic Centre in Rourkela, the DGP described the development as a “special moment” for the Odisha Police. He noted that while Maoist presence has been eliminated within Odisha, the threat persists in neighbouring states, prompting heightened vigilance along inter-state border areas.
“The Maoist presence that existed for nearly 30 years has now come to an end in Odisha. However, as they remain active in adjoining states, our forces are maintaining strict surveillance in border regions,” he said.
The DGP also highlighted a shift in policing priorities, identifying cyber crime as an emerging and significant challenge. He revealed that between January and February this year, police conducted a large-scale cyber operation in which over 45,000 bank accounts were scrutinized. More than 7,000 individuals have been served notices, and nearly 350 cyber criminals arrested so far.
He added that extensive public awareness campaigns are underway to curb cyber fraud, and announced that dedicated Cyber Crime and Economic Offences units will be established in all major district headquarters within a year.
Earlier in the day, the DGP Disc awards were presented to police personnel from the Western Range in recognition of their dedication, transparency, and notable achievements in service.
