The state government had launched a massive security operation June 18 to flush out Leftwing rebels who had virtually made areas in and around Lalgarh in the neighbouring West Midnapore district a 'free zone' since November last year.

However, despite the nearly two-month-long security operation, Maoist activities have been going on unabated, with several members of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) cadres and tribals being killed as they were considered police informers.