How was Maoist commander Gautam Yadav captured after being injured in Jharkhand encounter?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, Maoist commander Gautam Yadav, who was on the run post-injury during a police confrontation in Jharkhand, has been captured at a Varanasi hospital. This article explores the details of his arrest and its implications for the ongoing battle against Maoist insurgency.
Key Takeaways
- Gautam Yadav was arrested in Varanasi under a false identity.
- He sustained injuries during a police encounter in Jharkhand.
- Yadav is a zonal commander of the TSPC.
- Police recovered significant evidence from the encounter site.
- His capture highlights ongoing efforts against Maoist insurgency.
Ranchi, May 21 (NationPress) Maoist commander Gautam Yadav, who sustained injuries during a recent police encounter in Jharkhand and had been evading capture, was apprehended at a hospital in Varanasi, officials disclosed on Wednesday.
According to Palamu Superintendent of Police Rishma Rameshan, Yadav had admitted himself to the hospital using a fictitious name, registering as Mithilesh Yadav to evade authorities.
He was receiving treatment for a gunshot injury to the abdomen, which he incurred during an altercation with security forces in Palamu district on May 15.
Yadav, identified as a zonal commander of the banned Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC), was wounded during an intense firefight between TSPC members and police in the forested area of Baskatiya, falling under the jurisdiction of the Manatu police station.
The encounter involved multiple exchanges of gunfire, after which Yadav escaped while injured, reportedly assisted by a relative.
Police indicated that the Maoists had convened in the vicinity to strategize a significant operation.
In the aftermath of the confrontation, a search operation led to the recovery of AK-47 cartridges and other incriminating evidence from the location.
An FIR was subsequently filed against 13 Maoists, including commanders Yadav and Shashikant Ganjhu, the latter of whom has a bounty of Rs 10 lakh on his head.
Police sources revealed that Ganjhu orchestrated Yadav’s medical care in Varanasi.
Responding to intelligence reports, Palamu SP Rameshan formed a special investigation team directed by ASP Rakesh Singh, which conducted a raid on the Varanasi hospital, leading to Yadav's arrest.
Yadav is expected to be presented in a Varanasi court and subsequently transported to Palamu once his health improves.
This development coincides with a significant operation in which security forces eliminated 27 Maoists in the Abujhmad forest of Chhattisgarh. Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the operation, deeming it a landmark achievement in the fight against Naxalism (Maoism).
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing challenges posed by Maoist insurgency in India. The capture of a high-profile figure like Yadav underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement and the complexities involved in combating such groups. This incident serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of national security and the continuous need for vigilance and strategy in addressing these threats.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of Gautam Yadav?
Gautam Yadav was arrested after being traced to a Varanasi hospital where he was receiving treatment for a gunshot wound sustained during a police encounter in Jharkhand.
What is the significance of Yadav's arrest?
Yadav's arrest is significant as it represents a notable achievement in the fight against Maoist insurgency and highlights the effectiveness of police operations.
Who is Shashikant Ganjhu?
Shashikant Ganjhu is a commander in the Maoist outfit TSPC and has a bounty of Rs 10 lakh on his head, linked to organizing Yadav's medical treatment.
What was recovered from the encounter site?
Police recovered AK-47 cartridges and other incriminating materials from the site of the encounter, indicating the presence of armed Maoist cadres.
What were the outcomes of the recent police operations?
Recent police operations resulted in the elimination of 27 Maoists in Chhattisgarh's Abujhmad forest, showcasing the ongoing efforts to dismantle Maoist networks.
