New Delhi , April 7: Maoist rebels are now all set to target top politicians in Maoist-affected states, according to the latest inputs available with Central intelligence agencies. The inputs also reveal that the Maoists are gearing up to intensify their attacks on the security forces.

According to sources in Central intelligence agencies, the interrogation of arrested Naxalites has also revealed their plan to carry out Dantewada-like strikes almost every fortnight in areas in the “Red Corridor”. In fact, there are indications that Naxal-affected states like Jharkhand and Maharashtra may very soon face attacks similar to the one in Dantewada on Tuesday, the sources added.
Intelligence agencies have also received information about the rebels acquiring sophisticated arms and ammunition. “Inputs suggest that they have managed to procure sophisticated weapons made in countries like Italy, Russia and China through Maoists operating in Nepal,” said sources.
The support that the Nepalese Maoists extend to Naxalites operating in India too is a cause of serious concern. “There are confirmed reports that regular meetings are taking place between the Nepalese Maoists and Naxals from here in districts in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh,” the sources said, adding that the state police forces have been alerted in this regard.
What has also come to the attention of intelligence agencies is the Naxals’ growing ability to procure foreign weapons far more sophisticated than the looted weapons they would earlier depend upon. “The Naxals have slowly changed their strategy and are now trying to procure even bullet-proof jackets for senior leaders besides foreign weapons and high-end communication systems,” said sources. There are also confirmed inputs that the Naxals are in touch with Northeast-based insurgent groups in order to acquire sophisticated weaponry. 
While the probe into the brutal attack in Dantewada goes on, security agencies suspect that Kosa, the commander of the Naxals’ People’s Guerrilla Army could be the mastermind behind the massacre. There are also reports that Kosa and Katkam Sudershan, top Naxal commanders in Andhra Pradesh, visited Chhattisgarh last week, said sources. It was Katkam who reportedly instructed Kosa to carry out a major attack against security personnel in Chhattisgarh, the sources added.
 
Pramod Kumar