Politicians in Maoist-infested Khunti district of Jharkhand expressed grave concerns as they face serious security threats from Maoists ahead of the general elections - a democratic exercise that the rebels despise.
As per a report by the ministry of internal affairs, Khunti has been ranked the topmost Maoist affected district in the country.
Politicians said that as the mammoth exercise is just round the corner the people of the district are becoming increasingly scared of any Maoist activity.
"There is fear among people. The fear is also affecting the growth of this district. If this district was developed, then we could definitely get rid of Maoism. During election time, there is certainly an environment of fright," said a member of regional party, Jharkhand Vikas Morcha, Dilip Mishra.
Meanwhile, the police said they are gearing up to put a fight against the insurgents and are getting support from higher authorities.
"Khunti has been constantly known as a sensitive district. Police officials are very alert and sensitive, be it anti-Maoist operations or anti-PLFI (People's Liberation Front of India). The kind of preparation that should be done and that the police require, that is being done and being given to us by the Director General of Police and higher officers," said Deputy Inspector General of Police, Praveen Kumar.
Around 34 civilians and security officials were killed in Maoist attacks in Khunti last year.
