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

However, despite the nearly two-month-long security operation, Maoist activities have continued unabated, and several members of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), activists of other political outfits and tribals have been killed as Maoists considered them police informers.

Maoists are active in three western districts of the state - Bankura, Purulia and West Midnapore.