Did 10 Maoists Get Killed and 26 Arrested in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband?
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Synopsis
In a decisive anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband, security forces have reportedly neutralised ten Maoists, including a senior CPI-Maoist leader. This operation signifies a substantial victory in the ongoing battle against Naxalism.
Key Takeaways
- 10 Maoists were neutralised, including a senior leader.
- 26 arrests made, with significant bounties involved.
- Operation conducted by STF and COBRA units.
- Explosives and weapons seized during the crackdown.
- Government's commitment to eliminate Naxalism by 2026.
New Delhi, Sep 11 (NationPress) In a significant anti-Maoist operation on Thursday, 10 Maoists, including a high-ranking figure from the banned CPI-Maoist, have been eliminated in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband.
Acting on a precise intelligence tip-off regarding the presence of Maoists in the forests of Mainpur area, the teams comprising Gariaband E30, Special Task Force (STF), and COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action - an elite unit of CRPF) successfully executed the operation.
Among those neutralised was Modem Balakrishna, alias Balanna, Ramchandra, or Manoj, aged 58, who was a member of the Central Committee. His death is being viewed as a significant blow to the Naxalism threat in the region.
Balakrishna hailed from Warangal district in Telangana and had a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head.
On the same day, coordinated security efforts led to the arrest of 26 active Maoist members, including six individuals with a combined bounty of Rs 13 lakh, during various operations in Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh.
The crackdown involved the District Reserve Guard (DRG) Bijapur, the personnel from Gangaloor, Bhairamgarh, Usur, Awapalli, and Tarrem police stations, alongside CoBRA 205, as well as CRPF’s 196 and 62 Battalions.
Authorities confiscated explosives, weapons, and prohibited propaganda materials during the operations.
Reports indicate that the arrests occurred in distinct police station jurisdictions: three from Gangaloor, three from Bhairamgarh, eight from Awapalli, eight from Usur, and four from Tarrem.
Security forces also recovered IEDs, cooker and tiffin bombs, detonators, safety fuses, wires, batteries, digging tools, and Maoist propaganda items like banners, posters, and pamphlets.
During interrogation, the arrested individuals confessed to planning to plant IEDs targeting security forces.
Cases have been filed under applicable provisions of the Indian Penal Code and Explosives Act, and all suspects have been placed under judicial remand.
Recently, security forces have effectively addressed the Naxalism issue in the red corridor regions, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Telangana.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has consistently reaffirmed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union government aims to eliminate Naxalism by March 31, 2026.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the complexities surrounding the issue of Naxalism in India. While the recent operations demonstrate the government's commitment to combating this threat, it is essential to acknowledge the socio-economic factors contributing to this insurgency. Our nation stands firm in promoting peace and security while addressing the underlying issues faced by communities in affected regions.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarh?
The operation resulted in the elimination of 10 Maoists and the arrest of 26 others, including a senior leader of the CPI-Maoist.
Who was Modem Balakrishna?
Modem Balakrishna was a Central Committee member of the CPI-Maoist and was killed during the operation. He had a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head.
What security forces were involved in the operation?
The operation involved the Gariaband E30, Special Task Force (STF), and COBRA units, alongside local police forces.
What items were seized during the operation?
Authorities seized explosives, weapons, IEDs, and Maoist propaganda materials during the operations.
What are the government's plans regarding Naxalism?
The Union government aims to eradicate Naxalism by March 31, 2026, as reiterated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
