The Indian Maoists who have abducted two Italians are demanding an immediate ban on the entry of tourists and foreign visitors in the tribal belts of Odisha, The Times of India reported on Monday.
The guerrilla group abducted two Italians - Bosusco Paolo, 55, and Claudio Colangelo, 60, on Saturday, along with two local guides in the tribal dominated Kandhamal-Ganjam region in Odisha.
The Maoists alleged that Bosusco Paolo, a tour operator, had been exploiting the tribal belt for his own benefit, treating tribal people like animals.
The group said that they had taken the Italians into their custody to stop the "human safari."
The rebels demanded the release of tribal activists for their alleged links with the Maoists.
