One Maoist was killed during an exchange of fire with security forces in Kandhamal district. The security forces also seized one AK- 47 rifle from the spot.

The Odisha police in a release said: “On receipt of an intelligence input, an operation comprising two SOG (Special Operation Group) teams was launched in Budanai Reserve forest under Baliguda Police Station of Kandhamal district on Wednesday. In the course of the operation, there was an exchange of fire between SOG and Naxals on Friday at around 9am. The exchange of fire led to the neutralisation of one Maoist cadre.”

The police said during a search of the area, the body of one Maoist cadre (in uniform) along with one AK-47 rifle was recovered.

Preliminary inquiry reveals deceased was a senior ranked cadre of CPI(M) belonging to Kandhmal-Kalahandi-Boudh-Nayagarh Division (KKBN division) of Maoists operating in Kandhmal district. “Further search of the area and operation is in progress. In 2024, five Maoists have been neutralised in Odisha,” the police said.

The Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district will remain closed for visitors till October 28 due to heavy rain in the forest, an official said on Friday, reports PTI.

In view of Cyclone Dana, the STR was closed to visitors from October 23 to October 25. It was scheduled to reopen on Saturday. However, due to heavy rainfall, the reserve authority has now extended the closure period by three days, the STR official said.