Balangir, Bargarh free of Maoist influence: Cops in Odisha

Odisha police have declared Balangir and Bargarh districts, including the Gandhamardan hills, free from Naxal influence following the surrender of 15 Maoists led by their high-value leader. This declaration comes after a successful operation to dismantle the Balangir-Bargarh-Mahasamund division, a significant stronghold for Maoist activities in the region.