In view of the assembly elections, the district administrations in East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and Seraikela Kharsawan have intensified efforts to address security in Naxal-prone regions. With heightened activity from Maoist insurgents, particularly in Seraikela Kharsawan, police and civil authorities are prioritizing coordinated security measures, aiming to safeguard candidates, election workers, and voters.
The resurgence of Maoist activity in certain pockets has been a persistent challenge for the police. Over recent weeks, combing operations have been initiated across dense forested areas such as the Saranda Forest in West Singhbhum, known for its history of Naxal presence. Despite these operations, concerns linger over potential threats posed to candidates campaigning in rural constituencies, as well as to voters on election day.
State’s history with Maoist insurgency is extensive, with Jamshedpur and its surrounding areas witnessing notable episodes of violence. A stark reminder of the threat posed by Naxalites is the tragic assassination of Jamshedpur’s former MP Sunil Mahto in 2007, who was fatally attacked during a public event. The impact of his assassination has lingered, creating a sense of vulnerability among politicians and residents alike during election seasons.
The issue is further compounded by limited campaign efforts in high-risk areas. Political parties have previously shown reluctance to campaign in what are considered "Naxalite dens," fearing for the safety of their candidates and staff. "Security of political leaders and voters is a serious concern this election," an official from the district administration remarked. "We are mobilizing resources to ensure these elections proceed safely."
Recent upticks in Maoist activities in Seraikela Kharsawan have heightened concerns, spurring authorities to increase surveillance, road checks, and area patrols. The district's bordering forest zones, including Chakradharpur and Chaibasa, have witnessed incidents that indicate a resurgence of insurgent movement. Despite the deployment of additional forces, Naxals have managed to stage sporadic attacks and hold covert meetings aimed at consolidating their influence.
In response, authorities have ramped up patrolling in critical areas, especially across the Ghatshila sub-division, which covers regions like Dumaria, Musaboni, Chakulia, Baharagora, and Ghatshila. These areas have seen intermittent insurgent activities despite a decline in Naxalism in past years. According to sources within the police force, patrols have been increased around suspected Maoist hideouts and meeting points, with particular emphasis on night surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Jharkhand’s fight against Naxalism has had some success. Regions like Dumaria in Ghatshila and Patamda, once considered Maoist strongholds, have seen a significant decline in insurgent activity. Following brutal atrocities against villagers, local communities in these areas organized against Naxal dominance, substantially reducing Maoist influence.
"Naxal activities have increased in the district over the years, however, government agencies will take care of it but campaigning will not suffer due to Maoist threat, hopefully," said a leader.
