Did Maoists Really Murder the Tribal Villager in Chhattisgarh?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Murder attributed to personal conflict.
- No links to Maoist insurgency confirmed by police.
- Local authorities are investigating the case.
- The community is urged to remain calm and informed.
- Concerns over local violence persist amid a history of Maoist activity.
Raipur, Sep 17 (NationPress) Law enforcement officials in Chhattisgarh's Aranpur area have determined that the homicide of a tribal villager, once thought to be linked to Maoist factions, is actually a result of personal conflict.
This tragic event took place in Neelavaya Patelpara village, which falls under the Aranpur police station's jurisdiction. The victim, a 55-year-old named Bandi Korram, who was the son of Mukka Korram and a member of the Madia tribal community, was discovered deceased on the morning of September 17.
Given the region's susceptibility to Maoist violence, initial inquiries considered the possibility of insurgent involvement. However, after a swift and comprehensive investigation, police officials have dismissed any ties to militant groups.
“Based on the gathered evidence and local villagers' testimonies, it is evident that this was not a Naxalite-related incident. The murder arose from a longstanding personal feud between the victim and the suspect,” stated police representatives.
Forensic evidence and eyewitness accounts reveal a backdrop of tension and unresolved disputes that subsequently led to the fatal encounter, according to police sources.
A formal case has been lodged at the Aranpur police station, and authorities are actively hunting for the suspect. The police have assured the public that the responsible party will be apprehended soon and will face legal repercussions.
In response to the initial confusion, law enforcement has released a public advisory urging community members to avoid succumbing to rumors or misinformation. “We ask the public to stay calm and not engage in speculation. Anyone with pertinent information should report it directly to the Aranpur police station,” the advisory emphasized.
On April 2, 2025, a significant encounter took place near Aranpur in Dantewada district, resulting in the deaths of 13 Maoists during a coordinated operation involving DRG, Bastar Fighters, and CRPF. This operation marked one of the most lethal anti-Naxal actions in the region this year, with nearly 300 Maoist casualties reported in just the first 150 days of 2025—making it the deadliest rate since 2009.