How Many Maoists Were Neutralised in Chhattisgarh?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Over 14 Maoists neutralised in Chhattisgarh's Sukma and Bijapur districts.
- Significant blow to the Darbha Valley Committee.
- Heavy exchanges of fire lasted for several hours.
- Weapons including AK-47s and INSAS rifles recovered.
- Continuing operations aim to further reduce Maoist influence.
Raipur/Sukma/Bijapur, Jan 3 (NationPress) In one of the most significant anti-Naxal operations this year, security forces have successfully neutralised over 14 Maoists during two separate intense confrontations in the Sukma and Bijapur districts of Chhattisgarh's South Bastar region.
The initial gunfire broke out in the thick forests of the Kistaram area, located within the Sukma district, where combined teams of security personnel were undertaking a thorough search operation based on intelligence reports.
The forces faced heavy gunfire from the Maoists, resulting in fierce exchanges that continued for several hours.
As per the reports from Sukma and Bijapur police officials, a number of Maoists were killed in the encounter, with preliminary reports estimating the toll to exceed 14 in both Sukma and Bijapur.
Authorities indicate that the majority of the deceased Maoists were affiliated with the Darbha Valley Committee (DVCM), a significant formation within the Maoist ranks. Notably, the Naxal commander believed to be responsible for the death of Additional SP Akash Girpunje from Konta was among those neutralised, marking a substantial setback for the group.
Weapons seized from the location include an AK-47 and an INSAS rifle, alongside various forms of ammunition and explosives. The operation is still ongoing, with teams actively searching the area.
The precise casualty count and identities of the deceased will be verified once the forces return from the remote forest regions. Given the sensitive nature of the ongoing anti-Naxal operations, officials have opted not to disclose crucial details, such as the exact location of the confrontation or the number of security personnel deployed.
A senior police official, speaking to reporters, stated, "The operation has reached a pivotal stage and continues to evolve. For the safety of our personnel on the ground, we cannot divulge operational details at this moment."
Officials have promised that a detailed update, including the identities of the neutralised Maoists, information about the recovered weapons, and the overall outcome will be released only after the mission is completely finished and the area is declared safe.
The insurgency has seen a significant decline due to ongoing counter-operations, surrenders, and numerous developmental initiatives.
The number of affected districts has decreased to less than 20, primarily in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.
The government aims to eradicate Left-Wing Extremism by March 31, utilizing security camps, infrastructure enhancements, and welfare schemes. In recent years, numerous Maoists have either surrendered or been neutralised, weakening their organizational structure. However, fundamental issues such as tribal displacement and inequality persist, raising concerns regarding long-term solutions.