Naxalites Strike Again: Airtel Tower Destroyed in West Singhbhum

Naxalite influence appears to be resurging in the dense Saranda forest of West Singhbhum district, with a recent attack targeting vital communication infrastructure. On Saturday night, during the Naxalites’ designated ‘Resistance Week,’ a group of insurgents set fire to an Airtel mobile tower in Kolbonga village, within the Jaraikela police station limits. Reports from the ground suggest that around twenty armed Naxalites arrived at the village after dark. They strategically applied petrol to the tower’s equipment at its base and ignited it, causing extensive damage and rendering it non-operational. After the destructive act, the Naxalites chanted slogans, a clear attempt to assert their authority and spread fear. The local community believes the perpetrators intended to disrupt communication channels, making it difficult for security forces to coordinate operations. A state of anxiety prevails in Kolbonga and surrounding areas following the incident. Officials have confirmed that a detailed investigation into the arson attack has commenced. This is considered a major incident during the Naxalites’ ongoing ‘Resistance Week,’ which runs from October 8th to October 14th. The Saranda region has recently been a hotbed of Naxal activity, with prior incidents including IED explosions aimed at security personnel, which led to the death of a soldier and critical injuries to two others who are undergoing treatment.