Bhubaneswar: The BJD opposition party has raised alarms regarding an uptick in Maoist activities within Odisha's mineral-rich regions, specifically in Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Keonjhar.

This assertion was made by former minister Priti Ranjan Ghadai during a press briefing at the BJD's headquarters, Sankha Bhawan.

Ghadai pointed out that recent media reports have consistently reported on this troubling trend, claiming that armed Maoists are actively recruiting locals and coercively collecting funds.

This statement contradicts Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's assertion that Naxal activities in the state have significantly decreased.

In a recent assembly session, Majhi noted that approximately 120 Maoists remain active in Odisha.

He expressed the government's ambition to eradicate Maoist presence in the state by 2026.

Despite this, Ghadai expressed serious concerns regarding the state's internal security situation.

He criticized both the Odisha Police and the Home Department for their inadequate responses to the deteriorating law and order.

Ghadai attributed Odisha's previous designation as 'Maoist-free' in 2013 to the proactive measures taken by former chief minister Naveen Patnaik.

He lamented the resurgence of Maoist activities after a span of 11-12 years, calling it both unfortunate and alarming.

According to Ghadai, the rise in Maoist activities poses a dual threat: it jeopardizes the state's internal security and could deter potential investments, thereby hindering development.

He highlighted that Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Keonjhar are critical areas where significant investment proposals are on the horizon.

Ghadai warned that if the law and order situation continues to decline, investors may be discouraged from entering these regions.

He emphasized that the resurgence of Maoist activities is a serious issue that warrants immediate attention and should not be underestimated.

Furthermore, he criticized the 'double-engine' government for failing to uphold its promises and ensure the safety of the populace.

Ghadai urged the state government to transparently communicate the measures being implemented and the strategies planned to combat Maoist activities.