Naxals Go into Hiding in Jharkhand Following Hidma’s Death; “Spotted Snake” Reaction in Maoist Ranks

Chaibasa, Jharkhand: The death of Maoist leader Madvi Hidma in a police encounter in Andhra Pradesh has triggered a wave of panic among Naxals in Jharkhand and Odisha, causing them to go into hiding. Following Hidma’s death, Maoists have reportedly sent letters to state governments appealing for surrender and rehabilitation, a development that has left the network in disarray.

Naxal Operations Shrink to Saranda Forest
Active Naxals in Jharkhand are now largely confined to the Saranda forests in West Singhbhum district. Hidma had attempted to establish a stronghold in Saranda, which had earlier raised concerns of increased Maoist activity in Jharkhand and Odisha. Intelligence reports from Odisha also suggested that several of Hidma’s associates had moved to Saranda via Sundergarh, further escalating security alerts.

Why Saranda Remained Difficult for Hidma
Hidma’s efforts to consolidate control in Saranda were hindered by language and coordination barriers between his Andhra Pradesh associates and local Naxals in Jharkhand and Odisha. Consequently, he could not establish a strong grip in the region before his death.

Maoists’ Morale Takes a Hit
Following Hidma’s encounter on 18 November, Naxals’ morale in Jharkhand reportedly collapsed. Many have retreated further into Saranda, abandoning previous bases in Latehar, Giridih, and Gumla, which had supported organizational activities. Saranda, spanning approximately 820 sq km, has now become a focal point for law enforcement efforts.

Police and Paramilitary Forces Intensify Operations
Hidma had sent associates to Saranda to expand the organization’s influence into new areas, but his elimination has provided relief to Jharkhand and Odisha authorities. Jharkhand Police, in coordination with paramilitary forces, are actively targeting Naxals in Saranda, aiming to dismantle the remaining network and ensure the region becomes Naxal-free.