Even as the Maoists observed a bandh in seven districts of the State on Monday, security forces foiled an attempt to target them with Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Kalahandi district.

The security forces seized an IED along road at Kichatpadar under the Sadar police station in Kalahandi. It was suspected that the explosives were planted by the Red rebels to target security personnel during combing operations.

The Maoists observed the bandh in the districts of Rayagada, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Boudh, Nayagarh and Gajapati. The rebels also released an audio tape in this connection.

The impact of the bandh was felt the most in the Simanbadi area in Kandhamal district. Most of the markets remained shut.

A Maoist poster of Baghuna Division on a 12-point charter of demands was also recovered alongside National Highway-59 on Sunday.

The ultras also put up posters and banners at Pankalguri near Hanumantpur under Chandrapur block of Rayagada district. They also resorted to road blockades by felling trees, thereby affecting movement of vehicles.

The posters alleged that the poor people in the State are being denied access to education, healthcare and housing. They emphasised the need for the Government to rectify these alleged discrepancies and ensure welfare of the marginalised population.

Furthermore, the Maoists demanded establishment of Adarsha Schools and hospitals in every panchayat within the district.

The Maoists’ other demands were fair distribution of forestland, accurate valuation of forest produce, end to the sale of alcohol in the region and fulfilment of demands put forth by Anganwadi workers and teachers.