THE National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted a series of intensive searches across multiple locations in the Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. The focus of these operations was on identifying and apprehending cadres and supporters of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) believed to have played significant roles in the March 2023 road blockade incident, a crime that shocked the region and underlined the persistent threat posed by Maoist insurgency. According to sources, the investigation centres on the events of 20th March last year, when members and supporters of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) orchestrated a highly organised blockade on the Narayanpur-Orchha Main Road near the area known as India Gate Raynar.

 

The blockade was carried out by digging up multiple stretches of the road, felling large trees, and strategically placing small and large rocks to obstruct any movement. This carefully planned ambush was intended to trap and attack police forces, with the ultimate goal of seizing their weapons and equipment. Sources further revealed that as the NIA delved deeper into the case, which is officially registered as RC09/2024/NIA/RPR, the involvement of certain supporters and Over Ground Workers (OGWs) of CPI (Maoist) came to light. Among those identified were individuals suspected to be associated with Maad Bachao Manch, a well-known CPI (Maoist) front organisation operating in the region. This group is believed to have played a crucial role in facilitating the Maoists’ actions during the blockade. Notably, one of the accused, Lakhma Ram, also known as Lakhma Korram, who was leading Maad Bachao Manch at the Nadipara protest site in Orchha, has already been formally charged in connection with this case.

 

The sources added that further investigation has revealed that Maad Bachao Manch is deeply involved in organising protests against police encounters, and has been instrumental in helping to establish new operational bases for the banned organisation. In addition to providing logistical support, the group is also believed to be responsible for delivering essential supplies and materials to CPI (Maoist) cadres, thereby aiding their continued insurgency activities. These activities include organising various meetings and assemblies under the banner of Maad Bachao Manch to propagate and promote the Maoist ideology in the region. The latest NIA searches targeted four suspected members of this front organisation. The raids were conducted in the Maoist-affected and highly sensitive regions of Kasturmeta, Madali, and Malkal villages, all located within the Maad Division of CPI (Maoist) in Narayanpur district. These areas have long been known for their strong Maoist presence, making the operations particularly challenging and risky. Sources confirmed that the NIA is continuing its investigations with renewed vigour, as they work meticulously to uncover more details about the involvement of these individuals and their connections to the broader Maoist network.