Close shave for BSF men in Odisha blasts

MALKANGIRI: A group of Border Security Force (BSF) personnel had a narrow escape when two explosive devices planted by Maoists went off in Kalimela area of Malkangiri district in Odisha on Sunday.

The explosions took place when the BSF personnel had gone to the area near MPV-31 village to remove posters and banners put up by Maoists asking people to boycott the ensuing polls, Malkangiri superintendent of police Akhileswar Singh said.

While no BSF personnel was hurt in the incident, two cows were killed as the improvised explosive devices (IEDs) went off when they apparently stepped over them, Singh said.

A police force was sent to the area after the incident and security personnel were maintaining a strict vigil.

The incident is being viewed as a move by the Maoists to disrupt the poll process. Maoists are active in more than half of Odisha. Malkangiri district is their stronghold.

However deputy superintendent of police, Pramod Kumar Bagh, said that security had been tightened to ensure safety of voters and peaceful polling.

“We have made all security arrangements in Malkangiri considering the upcoming polls. Other than Malkangiri police, we also have centrally aided forces, and we are trying our best to ensure peaceful polls,” Bagh said.