In a concerning development, Naxal activities have resurfaced in the Malnad forests near Koppa and Sringeri, Chikkamagaluru, nearly 14 years after they diminished following a series of police encounters. Authorities have confirmed the arrest of three individuals on Sunday for allegedly harboring four Naxals, including two known figures, Latha and Jayanna. The police have seized three firearms, live ammunition, and meat from their residence, along with a calendar marked with a ‘Star’ symbol—a possible sign of Naxal affiliation.
In response, local police, alongside the Anti-Naxal Force, have initiated a combing operation at the borders of Sringeri and Koppa taluks, searching for any remaining Naxal presence. The police have registered cases under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhithe-2023, the Arms Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967, including charges related to conspiracy and unlawful activities.
This resurgence of Naxal activity has raised concerns among local residents, particularly after a prolonged period of relative peace following the death of top Naxal leader Saketh Rajan in a 2005 police encounter. While Naxal activities had significantly decreased in the region, sympathizers were still present. Activists suggest that issues like forest encroachment and the Kasturirangan report could be fueling the return of insurgent activities.
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