The presence of unidentified groups in the strategically significant forest areas of Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, has led to intensified joint inspections by central and state intelligence agencies. Although the state government maintains that Kerala is free of Maoist activity, there is growing concern that Maoists may be camping in this district, which houses vital establishments such as the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple and the Sabarigiri project, Kerala’s second largest hydroelectric project.
There are indications that remnants of groups fleeing intensified anti-Maoist and Naxalite operations in India’s Red Corridor may have scattered into the Goodrikal forest range in the district. In the aftermath of recent encounters in Chhattisgarh and the killing of Maoist leader Besava Raju, the central government has issued alerts to all states. Intelligence inputs suggest that such groups might infiltrate Kerala and Tamil Nadu with the help of sleeper cells familiar with the forest pathways of the Western Ghats.
Though the Kerala Police have not yet gathered concrete evidence, reports of thefts involving food and clothing from houses on the forest fringes have raised alarm. These incidents have occurred within sensitive forest zones, particularly the Goodrikal and Vadasserikkara ranges.
This forest region includes critical locations such as the Sabarigiri project, major dams, Ponnambalamedu where Sabarimala pilgrims congregate, and the Gavi tourist zone. In just one month, there have been more than ten reported cases of theft in these areas. Suspicions of Maoist involvement emerged after it was found that the route taken by the thieves led back into the forest. The stolen items include cooked food, utensils, cooking vessels, axes, and machete-like tools, all commonly associated with Maoist forest survival tactics.
Typically, Maoist groups camp in forested areas to disseminate their ideology. However, there is currently no evidence to suggest that local forest dwellers have been approached for ideological outreach. Intelligence agencies suspect that the individuals in question are likely fugitives, prioritizing survival over recruitment, which explains the exclusive targeting of food supplies.
The Goodrikal and Vadasserikkara forest ranges have a history of Maoist activity. These dense, human-scarce areas are accessible through interstate forest routes. Despite several cases of burglary along the forest borders, the police have not been able to gather any decisive clues. The forest department has also remained silent on the issue. Initial police investigations considered the possibility of involvement by individuals with mental health issues, but these inquiries have since ruled out such suspects.
Meanwhile, there are growing calls for local residents to form vigilante groups and conduct night patrols. Although the involvement of Maoists or terrorists has not been conclusively proven, intelligence agencies believe that the thefts were primarily intended for food preparation and consumption. However, the identity of those responsible remains unknown.
