PHULBANI: Daringbadi, known as the Kashmir of Odisha, has become a Maoists’ grazing ground. The ultras entered the area after December 2007 ethno-religious riots at Bamunigam under Daringbadi block in which, one person was killed.The Maoists, who had a strong presence in nearby areas of Daringbadi, took the opportunity and extended their sympathy to the victims of minority Christian community during the clash. Sources said the banned CPI (Maoist) organisation strengthened its base in Daringbadi block under the leadership of Sabyasachi Panda during the 2008 Kandhamal riots.“Although Panda’s popularity waned to some extent following arrest and surrender of some of his aides, he continues to be active. With the Italian nationals and the MLA abduction drama, he has only proved his superiority in the outfit,” a police officer said.Sources said he is always on the move and operates mostly in Kandhamal, Gajapati and Rayagada districts by staying inside the forest areas of Daringbadi, Adaba, Sorada and Kotagarh.The Maoist infiltration has also started reflecting upon the tourist inflow.
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