Home Minister Amit Shah Praises Security Forces for Major Blow to Maoists
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Synopsis
In a decisive victory, security forces have eliminated 22 Maoist insurgents across Bijapur and Kanker districts in Chhattisgarh, part of a broader campaign for a Naxal-free India. Despite the loss of one soldier, operations continue to ensure regional safety.
Key Takeaways
- Security forces eliminated 22 Maoists in Chhattisgarh.
- Operation part of the Naxal-Free India Campaign.
- One soldier tragically lost their life.
- Ongoing search operations in the area.
- Government aims for a Naxal-free nation by March 31 next year.
New Delhi/Raipur, March 20 (NationPress) In a significant triumph against Maoist insurgents, security forces have effectively neutralized 22 Left Wing Extremists in two distinct encounters in the Bijapur and Kanker districts of Chhattisgarh.
This operation is part of the government's 'Naxal Mukt Bharat Abhiyan' (Naxal-Free India Campaign), which also resulted in the recovery of a considerable cache of weapons and ammunition.
Regrettably, the success came at a steep cost, as one courageous soldier lost his life while fulfilling his duty.
Search operations in the vicinity remain ongoing.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the news on the social media platform X, expressing admiration for the unwavering resolve of the armed forces.
He stated: "Today, our soldiers accomplished another significant achievement in the 'Naxal Mukt Bharat Abhiyan'. Twenty-two Naxalites were eliminated in Bijapur and Kanker. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led administration is employing a stringent strategy with zero tolerance for Naxalites who refuse to surrender, even after being provided multiple opportunities. By March 31 of the following year, our nation will be liberated from Naxalism."
The action in Bijapur commenced early Thursday morning, near the Gangalur police station area.
Security forces, engaged in a coordinated operation near the Bijapur-Dantewada border, found themselves in a fierce gunfight with the Maoists.
The clash, which began around 7 a.m., resulted in the unfortunate death of a District Reserve Guard (DRG) member.
In Kanker, another confrontation occurred almost concurrently, contributing to the day's significant outcomes.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai praised the bravery and resilience of the security forces.
"Eighteen bodies were retrieved from one location and four from another. We honor the strength and courage of our heroic soldiers. At this rate, it won’t be long before Bastar is recognized for its achievements rather than its conflicts," he remarked.
He further acknowledged the efforts of what he termed the "double-engine government", attributing the seamless collaboration between state and Central forces to these successes.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma also contributed to the discussion, detailing the timeline of the Bijapur operation. He confirmed that DRG personnel and other security teams were involved, causing substantial damage to the Maoist network.
He also highlighted the ongoing search operation, reinforcing that the forces are dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the region. While the battle against the Maoists is far from over, such decisive actions are progressively leading the nation closer to its vision of a LWE-free future.
