"As per inputs, many of them are carrying AK-47. It is only senior Naxals of commandant level who carry such guns. Even top executive members of the CPI (Maoists) are also present in the area," sources said.

They, however, said it is unlikely that the senior Naxals would stay put in the area and take on the forces directly. "They would most probably withdraw and leave the fight to the local units and the villagers," the sources added.

Central security agency sources said groups of Left-wing extremists, which have taken control over almost 50 villages in Lalgarh, consist not only of cadres operating in West Bengal but also from neighbouring Jharkhand and Orissa.