How Did MP’s Hawk Force Inspector Ashish Sharma Become a Martyr in a Naxal Ambush?
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Synopsis
In a heart-wrenching incident, Inspector Ashish Sharma of the Madhya Pradesh Hawk Force was killed during an anti-Naxal operation. His bravery in the line of duty has left a profound impact, inspiring a crackdown on Maoist activities. This tragic loss highlights the ongoing battle against Left-Wing Extremism in India.
Key Takeaways
- Inspector Ashish Sharma was a decorated officer with two gallantry medals.
- The ambush occurred during a joint anti-Naxal operation.
- Sharma played a key role in previous successful operations against Maoists.
- The government is intensifying operations to counteract Left-Wing Extremism.
- Inspector Sharma is survived by his family, including two children.
Balaghat/Raipur, Nov 19 (NationPress) In a devastating blow during a heightened anti-Naxal campaign, Madhya Pradesh’s distinguished Hawk Force Inspector Ashish Sharma (40) lost his life in a brutal confrontation with Maoists on the border of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra on Wednesday.
The clash erupted in the thick forests near Kauhapani, under the jurisdiction of Bortalab police station in Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh. A collaborative team comprising members of the Madhya Pradesh Hawk Force and Chhattisgarh Police was executing a search-and-destroy mission when they were unexpectedly ambushed by Maoists around 7 am.
As per police reports, the Maoists commenced gunfire from elevated vantage points. The security forces responded promptly, leading to a fierce gunfight that extended for several hours.
During the skirmish, Inspector Ashish Sharma suffered multiple bullet wounds. He was urgently transported to a hospital in nearby Dongargarh, where medical professionals pronounced him deceased upon arrival.
A native of Balaghat district, Sharma was a highly decorated officer, having received two gallantry medals for his exceptional bravery in anti-Naxal operations. He played a crucial role in the February 2025 operation in the Raunda forests of Balaghat, where three notorious female Maoists with bounties on their heads were neutralized. His exemplary field record resulted in consecutive promotions.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow and declared that Inspector Sharma would receive a state funeral with full honors. “Ashish Sharma was a courageous son of Madhya Pradesh who sacrificed his life in the battle against Left-Wing Extremism. His legacy will endure,” the CM stated on X.
Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma also paid homage, indicating that joint operations would be further intensified following the ambush.
Additional units of CRPF and DRG have been deployed, and combing operations are ongoing throughout the entire tri-junction area. This incident marks the second significant event in the region within 48 hours, following the elimination of 14 Naxalites, including the prominent commander Madvi Hidma, in separate clashes along the Chhattisgarh-Andhra Pradesh border.
Security sources indicate that the ambush was executed by remnants of the Malajkhand-Tirodi-Platoon of CPI (Maoist), who are reportedly desperate after recent setbacks. Significant quantities of arms, ammunition, and Maoist literature have been retrieved from the scene of the encounter.
Inspector Ashish Sharma is survived by his wife and two young children.
Point of View
The loss of Inspector Ashish Sharma underscores the grave reality of the ongoing conflict against Naxalism in India. His sacrifice is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by our security forces. The government's commitment to intensifying operations reflects a determined stance against Left-Wing Extremism, highlighting the necessity for support and resources to combat this persistent threat.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Inspector Ashish Sharma?
Inspector Ashish Sharma was killed in an ambush by Maoists during an anti-Naxal operation on the Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh-Maharashtra border.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident took place in the dense forests near Kauhapani in Rajnandgaon district, Chhattisgarh.
What was the response of the Madhya Pradesh government?
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow and announced that Inspector Sharma would receive a state funeral with full honors.
What are the implications of this ambush?
The ambush has led to intensified joint operations between Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh police forces against Maoists.
How many Naxalites were killed recently?
In a separate encounter, 14 Naxalites were killed, including top commander Madvi Hidma, within 48 hours of this incident.
