How is the Fight Against LWE Strengthening? Eknath Shinde Commends Security Forces for Gadchiroli Encounter

Synopsis
The recent encounter in Gadchiroli where four Maoists were neutralized highlights the effectiveness of the Central government's strategy against LWE. Eknath Shinde commends the efforts of security forces, showcasing the ongoing commitment to eradicating this threat from India.
Key Takeaways
- Significant success in the fight against LWE in Gadchiroli.
- Four Maoists neutralized during a police operation.
- Commendation for the bravery of the C-60 commandos.
- Operation conducted under challenging weather conditions.
- Continued focus on eradicating LWE from India.
Mumbai, May 23 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, stated on Friday that the neutralization of four Maoists during a confrontation in the Gadchiroli district marks a significant achievement in the Central government's relentless battle to completely eliminate LWE from the nation.
He noted, “Today’s operation serves as a strong response to the Maoists and reinforces our anti-LWE initiatives.”
Shinde, who previously held the position of guardian minister for Gadchiroli, extended his congratulations to Sandeep Patil, the Special Director General of Police for Anti-Naxal Operations, along with the district superintendent of police and their teams for their commendable efforts despite challenging weather conditions.
“Just two months ago, the Gadchiroli police established a police aid station in Kawande village, situated on the border of Bhamragad taluka and Chhattisgarh. Acting on intelligence regarding Maoist movements, 300 personnel from the C-60 squad and a unit of the Central Reserve Police Force were deployed to the area on Thursday afternoon. As the Maoists opened fire on the police at dawn, a two-hour exchange ensued, leading to the discovery of four deceased Maoists, including two females and two males,” he detailed.
The police revealed that the operation commenced Thursday afternoon after intelligence indicated Maoist presence near the newly established Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kawande.
As first light broke on Friday, security forces were securing the area and searching the riverbanks when they were unexpectedly met with gunfire from the Maoists.
The C-60 commandos reacted swiftly, resulting in a fierce gunfight that lasted nearly two hours.
After the clash subsided, a meticulous search of the area revealed the bodies of four Maoists and a cache of weapons and supplies, including an automatic self-loading rifle, two .303 rifles, a Bharmar gun, walkie-talkies, camping equipment, and Maoist literature.
This encounter follows a major crackdown in nearby Chhattisgarh just two days prior, where security forces successfully neutralized 27 Maoists, including their prominent commander, Basavaraju.