Bhubaneswar, Apr 13 (Reporter) The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has alleged that since the new BJP government took charge, Maoist activities have increased in at least three districts of the state. Senior BJD leader and former Minister Priti Ranjan Ghadai told a press conference here on Saturday that despite this being reported by the media, the government has shown no urgency to address the issue. Ghadai said Maoist activities has been rising in the districts of Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Keonjhar. Over the past few months, media reports have consistently highlighted this issue. Armed Maoists have reportedly been moving around, recruiting people from local areas, and forcefully collecting money. He said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had also admitted in the Assembly that around 120 Maoists are currently active in the state and the government aims to make Odisha Maoist-free by 2026. Ghadai also expressed concern about the state's internal security. As the law and order deteriorates, both the Odisha Police and the Home Department have failed to take effective measures, he said. Although the Home Department is expected to anticipate and counter such Maoist activities, the government has failed to do so. He said Odisha was declared Maoist-free in 2013 due to various steps taken by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. It is unfortunate and concerning that Maoist activities have resurged after 11–12 years. The increase in Maoist activities not only threatens the state's internal security but may also deter investments and hinder the state's development, he said. The three affected districts—Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Keonjhar—are areas where major investment proposals have been planned. If law and order deteriorate, investors may shy away from these regions, he said. The Senior BJD leader also remarked that the "double engine" government, which came to power with many promises, is now failing to ensure the safety of common people. The state government must clearly explain to the public what steps have been taken and what plans are in place to suppress Maoist activities. He said the rise in Maoist activities is a serious concern and should not be taken lightly...////...