Ramgiri forest, Naxals new den
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Sunday March 11 2007 14:50 IST
JEYPORE: Ramgiri forest spread over Koraput and Malkangiri districts would be the next hub of Chhattisgarh Naxals. The forest covers 4,000 sq km and two blocks, Kundura and Boipariguda in Koraput district, which are said to be favourable new destination for the cadres.
The geographical position of the forest has indeed proved advantageous for the ultras.
The most sensitive Dantewada and Bastar district forests of Chhattisgarh are linked to Ramgiri area.
The Kolab river, locally known as Pataliganga, is the sole dividing factor between the two regions.
However, a bridge near Kiang under Mathili block has reduced the distance and Naxals have reportedly started venturing from Tukpal and Pushpal, bordering Chhattisgarh.
The Chhattisgarh cadres have been eyeing Ramgiri since 2001 by winning hearts of local tribals through their frontal organisation, Adivasi Sangha.
Several efforts to enter the forest proved futile. However, for the last two years they have been reviving their activities and in the past two months cadres have been entering Ramgiri.
Meanwhile, police increased vigil in the region after some locals informed about the movement of Naxals in the 'haats' of Ramgiri forest areas.
A meeting was conducted in the wake of fresh Naxal movements by senior police and intelligence officials and police has been geared up to curb the ultras.
Koraput police are, however, tight-lipped over the arrival of Naxals in Ramgiri area.
They have started entering the forest through Tukpal and Pushpal, bordering Chhattisgarh Newindpress
posted by Resistance 3/11/2007 05:35:00 PM,
