Have Six Maoists Including Four Women Cadres Been Killed in a Chhattisgarh Encounter?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Six Maoists eliminated in a significant encounter.
- Key figures among the deceased include notorious commander Dilip Bedja.
- Operation executed by DRG, COBRA, and STF.
- Large cache of weapons recovered, indicating a potential major offensive.
- Authorities emphasize ongoing vigilance against Maoist regrouping.
Raipur/Bijapur, Jan 18 (NationPress) In a significant achievement for law enforcement agencies, six Maoists, comprising four female cadres, have been eliminated during a violent clash in Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, according to an official statement.
This operation, executed by a collaborative unit of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), COBRA, and the Special Task Force (STF), delivers a substantial setback to Maoist operations in the region.
Among the deceased Maoists, the infamous commander DVCM Dilip Bedja, ACM Madvi Kosa, female ACM Lakhi Madkam, and party member Radha have been confirmed. The identities of the other two are still being verified.
Officials have reported that Dilip Bedja had been active in the Indravati Reserve and National Park areas, leading violent campaigns against the government.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma mentioned that Bedja was given multiple chances to surrender but declined. “He was neutralised after ignoring repeated appeals to disarm. With his removal, the National Park area can now be considered nearly devoid of Maoist activity,” Sharma stated.
The encounter also resulted in the seizure of a substantial arsenal, including two AK-47 rifles, one INSAS rifle, two .303 rifles, and six grenades. Authorities suspect that the Maoists were gearing up for a significant offensive, highlighting the operation's critical nature.
As per Bijapur Superintendent of Police Dr. Jitendra Yadav, sporadic gunfire between the forces and the Maoists persisted throughout the day. “The challenging forest terrain and geographical obstacles posed significant hurdles, but our personnel exhibited remarkable bravery and tactical acumen,” Yadav remarked.
Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj Pattilingam, commended the forces' discipline and effectiveness. “Despite the challenges, the DRG, COBRA, and STF members executed a decisive operation with unmatched valor. This represents another advancement in dismantling Maoist networks in Bastar,” he stated.
This successful operation is anticipated to considerably diminish Maoist influence in Bijapur, a district long viewed as a stronghold. Security forces are maintaining vigilance and conducting ongoing search operations to ensure complete area security and prevent any regrouping of Maoist elements.