Chhattisgarh: Were Two High-Ranking Maoist Commanders Neutralised?
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Synopsis
A recent operation in Chhattisgarh led to the neutralisation of two high-ranking Maoist leaders, Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame, marking a pivotal moment in the state's campaign against left-wing extremism. This encounter underscores the ongoing efforts by security forces to restore peace in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Two senior Maoist leaders neutralised.
- Operation highlights effective intelligence.
- 229 Maoists neutralised in 2023.
- Continued efforts to dismantle insurgent networks.
- Significant success for security forces.
Raipur, Aug 13 (NationPress) In a significant achievement within Chhattisgarh’s ongoing anti-Maoist operations, security forces successfully neutralised two prominent Maoist commanders - Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame - during a fierce gun battle in the forested area of Banda Pahad, located near Karekatta village in the Manpur-Mohla-Ambagarh Chowki district.
The encounter, which unfolded close to the Kanker border, is regarded as a crucial success in the state’s intensified efforts to combat left-wing extremism.
According to Superintendent of Police Yashpal Singh, the operation was initiated based on precise intelligence regarding the presence of senior Maoist figures in the vicinity. A collaborative team, consisting of the District Police, District Reserve Guard (DRG), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), encircled the forest area around 5 pm on Wednesday. When the Maoists opened fire, the security forces retaliated, leading to a prolonged exchange of gunfire, ultimately resulting in both commanders being neutralised. Following the cessation of gunfire, the bodies of Reddy and Salame were retrieved along with an INSAS rifle, a .303 rifle, and other materials associated with the Maoists. The security personnel are currently conducting searches in the area for additional Maoist bodies.
Vijay Reddy, aged 55, originally from Andhra Pradesh, was affiliated with the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZCM) and had a bounty of Rs 25 lakh.
Lokesh Salame, 40 years old and a resident of Rajnandgaon district, served as a divisional committee head with a reward of Rs 10 lakh. Both figures were pivotal in the Rajnandgaon-Kanker-Border division and had orchestrated numerous attacks over the years, instilling fear among villagers in the regions of Manpur, Madanwada, and Sitagaon, as noted by the officer.
The forested region where the encounter transpires has historically functioned as a strategic base for Maoist operations, including training camps and weapon storage.
The official also pointed out that this area was being utilized by Company No. 5 of the CPI (Maoist) and had become a refuge for key commanders. This operation forms part of a larger campaign that has led to the neutralisation of 229 Maoists in Chhattisgarh this year, with 208 of them in the Bastar division.
Notwithstanding challenging terrain and monsoon conditions, security forces remain resolute in their commitment to dismantle the insurgent network and restore peace to the region.
Point of View
This operation highlights the effectiveness of strategic intelligence and coordinated efforts by various security forces. The neutralisation of key Maoist leaders like Reddy and Salame not only disrupts their operations but also sends a strong message about the government's resolve to combat left-wing extremism in the region. It is a crucial step towards ensuring peace and stability in Chhattisgarh.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Chhattisgarh's Banda Pahad region?
Security forces neutralised two senior Maoist leaders, Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame, in a gunfight during an anti-Maoist operation.
Who were Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame?
Vijay Reddy, a member of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee, had a bounty of Rs 25 lakh. Lokesh Salame was a divisional committee head with a reward of Rs 10 lakh.
Why is this operation significant?
This operation is part of a broader campaign against left-wing extremism, marking a critical success in neutralising influential Maoist figures.
How many Maoists have been neutralised in Chhattisgarh this year?
A total of 229 Maoists have been neutralised in Chhattisgarh in 2023, with 208 of them in the Bastar division.
What challenges do security forces face in this region?
Security forces face challenging terrain and monsoon weather while conducting operations against Maoist insurgents.
