Heightened alert after Naxal movement reported in Malnad-coastal areas

CHIKKAMAGALUR, UDUPI: The Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) has been put on high alert after movement of Naxals was reported in parts of Chikkamagalur and Udupi.

A memorial for Saket Rajan in the forests and (right) Vikram Gowda.

It is suspected that the Naxals, led by Vikram Gowda, are preparing to organise a ‘Martyr’s Day’ to honour Naxal leader Saket Rajan who was killed in an early morning encounter on February 6, 2005 near Menasinahadya in Koppa taluk. Vikram Gowda had gone absconding ever since and is now reported to be roaming in the Western Ghats.

In the light of the suspected Naxal movement, the ANF has taken up combing operations in the Malnad and coastal areas. About a month ago, the Naxals were involved in an exchange of fire with the police at Thundercool in Kerala.

Vikram Gowda joined the Naxal group about 20 years ago and the same group is suspected to be moving near Jadkal, Mudoor and Belkal in Byndoor taluk of Udupi district.