What Happened in Chhattisgarh: Three Villagers Injured in IED Blast?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Three villagers injured in an IED blast in Bijapur.
- Maoists are responsible for planting the explosive device.
- The injured were foraging for wild mushrooms when the incident occurred.
- Authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious activity.
- Community vigilance is essential to ensure safety.
Raipur, July 14 (NationPress) Three villagers suffered significant injuries due to an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion attributed to Maoists in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh.
The event transpired close to Dhangol village, under the jurisdiction of the Maddeed police station, while the victims were foraging for wild mushrooms, locally termed phutu, which are favored in the Bastar region during the monsoon.
The injured individuals are identified as Kavita Kudiyam, 16, Korse Santosh, 26, and Chidem Kanhaiya, 24, all of whom reside in Dhangol.
As per police reports, the trio unintentionally triggered a pressure-activated IED set by Maoists, resulting in an explosion that inflicted severe damage to their legs and faces.
They were promptly transferred to Bijapur District Hospital late Sunday night and are currently receiving treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable.
Security forces suspect that the explosive was aimed at personnel engaged in anti-Naxal operations, as Maoists frequently position pressure IEDs along forest paths used by patrol units.
However, such explosives have consistently jeopardized civilian lives in the Bastar region, including Bijapur. Previous incidents have resulted in fatalities and injuries to villagers, children, and livestock, highlighting the indiscriminate tactics employed.
The district administration has issued a public advisory urging residents to exercise heightened caution when entering wooded areas. Locals are encouraged to report any suspicious items, wires, or disturbances in the ground to the nearest police station or security post.
Authorities have stressed that community vigilance is essential to avert further tragedies and ensure the safety of civilians in high-conflict areas.
This most recent incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by Maoist insurgents in tribal-dominated areas of Chhattisgarh, where challenging terrain and poor connectivity complicate counterinsurgency efforts.
Despite continuous security operations and developmental initiatives, the presence of hidden explosives remains a serious concern for both law enforcement and local communities.