Rahul Gandhi Honors CRPF Officer Who Sacrificed His Leg in Anti-Maoist Operation
Synopsis
Rahul Gandhi met with a brave CRPF officer who lost his leg in an anti-Maoist operation, highlighting his courage and dedication. The meeting underscores the sacrifices made by security personnel in the line of duty.
Key Takeaways
Rahul Gandhi commends a CRPF officer's bravery.
Officer lost his leg in an IED explosion during anti-Maoist action.
Meeting emphasizes the sacrifices of security forces.
Gandhi expresses condolences for a tragic hospital fire incident.
In New Delhi on March 16, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed his support for a CRPF officer who endured the loss of a leg during a counter-Maoist operation in Jharkhand.
In his social media message, Gandhi commended the courageous officer from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), specifically from the elite 209 CoBRA Battalion (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), for his unwavering commitment to the country.
“Today, I had the honor of meeting Mr. Ajay Malik, Assistant Commandant of the Cobra Battalion, at R.K. Puram, New Delhi,” Gandhi shared online.
“He lost one of his legs due to severe injuries sustained during an IED blast while conducting an anti-Naxal operation in Jharkhand. Engaging with him, I was inspired by his remarkable courage, steadfast spirit, and extraordinary resilience,” he remarked.
“I pay tribute to his service and commitment to our nation. I wish him a swift recovery,” Gandhi added after his visit with Malik and his family.
Earlier this month, Malik suffered critical injuries from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion amidst an ongoing anti-Maoist search and cordon effort in the thick Saranda forest area of West Singhbhum district, Jharkhand.
The joint operation was initiated based on credible intelligence regarding Maoist activity when a pressure IED detonated during the mission.
The injured officer was promptly evacuated, received initial medical treatment, and was airlifted to Ranchi for further care. Following the incident, security personnel secured the area, intensified their search efforts, and deployed additional forces as per an official report.
Earlier that day, Gandhi extended his condolences regarding the tragic loss of life in a hospital fire in Odisha.
In a social media post, the Leader of Opposition stated, “The news of many lives lost in the fire incident at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha, is deeply distressing. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and wish for a rapid recovery for those injured.”
Point of View
Fostering a sense of national unity and appreciation for those who serve.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What incident led to the CRPF officer losing his leg?
The officer lost his leg due to severe injuries from an IED blast during a counter-Maoist operation in Jharkhand.
What did Rahul Gandhi say about the officer?
Rahul Gandhi praised the officer's courage and dedication, expressing hope for his speedy recovery.
What other event did Rahul Gandhi address on the same day?
He expressed condolences for the loss of lives in a hospital fire in Odisha.
What is the CoBRA Battalion?
The CoBRA Battalion is an elite unit within the CRPF specializing in counter-insurgency operations.
