What Impact Did the Arrest of 16 Maoists Have in Bijapur?
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Synopsis
In a critical development, 16 Maoist cadres were apprehended in Bijapur, significantly impacting the fight against Left-Wing Extremism. This operation illustrates the ongoing struggle in Chhattisgarh, emphasizing the resilience of security forces and their strategies. As the region confronts these challenges, the future of Maoism in India remains uncertain.
Key Takeaways
- 16 Maoist cadres arrested in Bijapur.
- Significant cache of explosives recovered.
- Coordinated operation by multiple security forces.
- Recent trend of Maoist surrenders noted.
- Government's commitment to eradicate Naxalism by 2026.
Raipur, Sep 2 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement for law enforcement agencies tackling Left-Wing Extremism in Chhattisgarh, 16 active Maoist militants were apprehended during a coordinated operation in Bijapur district, officials reported on Tuesday.
This operation has significantly undermined Maoist activities in the Bastar division, which is one of the most severely impacted areas in the state.
The operation was executed collaboratively by the District Reserve Guard (DRG), personnel from the Basaguda, Gangalur, and Jangla police stations, along with units from CoBRA 210 and 202 battalions, as well as the CRPF’s 229 battalion.
Based on intelligence regarding Maoist movements, the teams initiated a synchronized search that culminated in the arrests.
A substantial cache of explosives and equipment was seized from the detained militants. The confiscated items included an IED, cooker bomb, tiffin bomb, cardex wire, safety fuse, electric wires, multimeter, and digging tools.
Authorities also discovered Maoist propaganda materials intended to disseminate their ideology and rally local inhabitants.
During questioning, the apprehended militants admitted that the explosives were intended for deployment as Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) aimed at security personnel.
A case has been lodged under pertinent sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The arrested individuals were presented before a court and subsequently placed in judicial custody.
Recently, 31 Maoists with a collective reward of ₹81 lakh surrendered to the police.
Since the beginning of the year, 307 Maoists have surrendered in Bijapur, while 331 others have been apprehended, and 132 have been killed in encounters.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reiterated his commitment that the nation will be entirely liberated from Naxalism (Maoism) by March 31, 2026.
He stated that with the valor displayed by security forces and the precise strategies devised by intelligence agencies, this objective is achievable.
He also noted that Maoists, who typically rest during the rainy season, will not find peace this monsoon, as security forces will persist with their operations.
Point of View
The recent arrests in Bijapur highlight the ongoing challenges and the relentless efforts of security forces in combating Maoism. It showcases a significant achievement in the fight against Left-Wing Extremism, underscoring the necessity for continued vigilance, strategic intelligence, and community engagement in eradicating this long-standing issue in Chhattisgarh.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the Maoists arrested for?
The arrested Maoists were charged with possession of explosives intended to target security forces, along with other related offenses under the Explosive Substances Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
How many Maoists have surrendered recently?
Recently, 31 Maoists with a combined reward of ₹81 lakh surrendered to the police, showcasing a shift in the dynamics of Maoist influence in the region.
What is the government's stance on Naxalism?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has affirmed that India aims to be completely free from Naxalism by March 31, 2026, leveraging the capabilities of security forces and intelligence strategies.
