Cops ready to take on Reds

Warangal: Not with standing the confidence exuded by the security forces that all is well on Telangana border sharing with Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, there is a semblance of fear among the tribal pockets in view of PI-Maoists' call for Martyrs' Week beginning with Sunday in the restive Dandakaranya region.

Although the security forces claim that they have been in total control of Godavari valley abutting Maoist-infested Chhattisgarh, it is believed that the outlawed outfit is capable of striking a blow or two to make their presence felt in the region.

The landmine that went off killing an ox in Wajedu mandal a couple of days ago reflects that the banned outfit is active in the region to observe Martyrs' Week. It may be mentioned here that the Maoists observe Martyrs' Week every year from July 28 to August 3 in memory of the Naxalite movement founder Charu Mazumdar.

While the rebel outfit launched a poster campaign in forest fringe villages ahead of Martyrs' Week, the security forces also heightened "anti-Maoist" operations. The sudden visit of police boss, Director General of Police M Mahender Reddy, to Mulugu this week reflects the precariousness of the situation on the interstate border.

In view of Martyrs' Week, the government kept a tight vigil on the Maoist-infested areas by deploying greyhounds, CRPF and special parties in addition to local police. Not to mention, vehicle checks, and combing operation is part and parcel of everyday routine for the security forces in the region.

Speaking to The Hans India, Bhupalpally Superintendent of Police R Bhaskaran said: "We have been in monitoring the situation closely. We are also in constant touch with the police of neighbouring States – Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. The security forces are in total control of entire area abutting Godavari river."

"The police are keeping a tight vigil on Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP). Besides putting intelligence wing on high alert, we have been monitoring the components of KLIP through drone surveillance," Bhaskaran said.

It may be mentioned here that Bhaskaran who previously worked in Bhadrachalam Agency is well aware of the situation in the region.