Naxal threat looming in poll-bound Andhra Pradesh, but cops alert: DGP

HYDERABAD: Andhra Pradesh has sought a 20 per cent increase in deployment of Central paramilitary forces over 2009 elections for the peaceful conduct of simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls to thwart Naxal bid to infiltrate and disrupt the electoral process.

"Our main endeavour is to arrest the infiltration of Maoist dalams (squads) from across the bordering states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Maharashtra into Andhra Pradesh. The ultras form action teams/parties to disrupt the election process or to hit specific targets," state DGP B Prasada Rao told reporters here.

Rao said the state had projected 20 per cent more number of security forces compared to such deployment in troubled pockets during 2009 general elections and expressed hope of getting the requisite support from the Centre in this regard.

"We are aware of this (Left Wing Extremism) threat. The main concentration is on bordering areas. We had a video conference with the SPs and senior police officers of the bordering districts to make them aware of the threat and for taking necessary precautionary measures," Rao said.

Between March 30 and May 7, four elections - Urban local bodies, Panchayats, Assembly and Lok Sabha - are scheduled in the state, where eight extremist-affected districts border three states.

He said the ultras give a call for boycott of elections and try to enforce it. "They step up their (violent) activities...Police are aware of such a possibility and are taking precautionary measures," he added.

Asked on the audacity of the Maoists to attack police force, the DGP said "...Threat is there and we are aware of the threat that is looming. They can come in these areas and we are taking all precautions".