Maoists ask Odisha villagers not to use mobile phones

Maoists have painted a message on a wall in Odisha's Malkangiri district, threatening people against using mobile phones without their permission, police said on Thursday.

The message, signed by CPI(Maoist), was seen painted on a wall in Arapadar village on Thursday and was meant for residents of Andrapalli panchayat comprising 10 villages, a police officer said.

"Please do not use mobile phones. Do not make a phone call without permission. Whoever makes a call, shall be responsible for his fate," the message in Odia said.

District Additional Superintendent of Police U C Nayak said, "We are aware of the threat (issued in the message). Our team will inquire about the truth behind the restriction of the mobile phone use."