Notorious Maoist Leader Kunjam Hidma Arrested by Odisha Police in Major Breakthrough

Maoist Leader Kunjam Hidma Arrested in Odisha: A Major Blow to Left-Wing Extremism

In a major breakthrough, Odisha Police have successfully arrested Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma in Koraput district, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against left-wing extremism in India. The arrest took place on Thursday and is being hailed as a landmark achievement in the state’s long-standing efforts to combat Naxalite violence.

Kunjam Hidma, considered one of the most dreaded Maoist leaders, was a top operative of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) and was wanted in several high-profile cases, including attacks on security personnel and civilians in Chhattisgarh and Odisha. His capture is expected to severely cripple the Maoist command structure in the region.

Who is Maoist Leader Kunjam Hidma?

Kunjam Hidma, often referred to as Hidma by security agencies, has long been a notorious figure in the Maoist hierarchy. He is believed to be the commander of the PLGA’s Battalion No. 1, a unit known for its lethal ambushes and guerrilla tactics. Hidma has been implicated in numerous attacks, including the deadly ambush in Sukma (Chhattisgarh) in 2021 that claimed the lives of over 20 security personnel.

He was also on the radar of multiple security agencies across several states and carried a significant bounty on his head. The arrest of Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma is likely to disrupt planned operations and reduce the influence of Maoist factions in the tribal belts of Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

Details of the Operation

According to sources in the Odisha Police, the operation to apprehend Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma was the result of meticulous intelligence gathering and inter-agency coordination. Acting on specific inputs, a joint team of the Special Operations Group (SOG) and District Voluntary Force (DVF) launched a well-planned mission in the dense forest areas of Koraput.

After a brief encounter and an intense search operation, security forces were able to corner and arrest Hidma without any collateral damage. He is currently being interrogated at a secure location, and officials believe that valuable intelligence may be extracted regarding the internal operations of Maoist groups in the region.

Reaction from Authorities and Locals

Odisha DGP Sunil Kumar Bansal praised the police team for their courageous and tactful execution of the mission. “The arrest of Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma is a testament to our commitment to eliminate left-wing extremism. We are confident that this development will bring a sense of security to the people of Odisha,” he said.

Local residents, especially in affected tribal areas, have expressed hope that the arrest will lead to a reduction in Maoist activities. Many have been living in fear due to frequent Maoist threats, extortion, and violence. This development is expected to bolster public confidence in the state’s security apparatus.

Implications for Maoist Movement

Experts believe that the arrest of Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma could trigger a major setback for the Maoist movement in central India. Hidma was not only a military strategist but also played a key role in recruitment and logistics for the PLGA. His absence could lead to fragmentation within the group and potentially slow down their operations.

Security analysts also note that this arrest may encourage more surrenders among Maoist cadres who are demoralized by the loss of a key leader. The Odisha Police have already intensified surveillance and are preparing for possible retaliatory actions by Maoist sympathizers.

A Step Forward in Peacebuilding

The arrest of Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma underscores the success of coordinated anti-insurgency operations and the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing. It also highlights the government’s commitment to restoring peace and development in tribal areas long marred by violence and neglect.

The Odisha government has reiterated its dual strategy of crackdown and development — combining strict law enforcement with social welfare initiatives aimed at providing education, employment, and healthcare to tribal populations. The fall of Hidma may very well be the turning point that enables deeper progress in these areas.

Conclusion

The arrest of Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma is more than just a law enforcement success — it is a symbol of hope for peace, stability, and progress in a region that has long suffered from extremist violence. As authorities continue their efforts to dismantle Maoist networks, this development will serve as a morale booster for the forces and a deterrent for insurgents still active in the region.

This arrest could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Odisha’s fight against extremism — one that brings the state closer to lasting peace and security.