Has the NIA Charged Five in the Maoist Explosives Supply Case in Chhattisgarh?
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Synopsis
In a decisive action, the NIA has charged five individuals linked to the CPI (Maoist) with supplying explosives for attacks against security forces in Chhattisgarh. This move underscores the agency's commitment to combating left-wing extremism in the region.
Key Takeaways
- NIA's decisive action against Maoist terrorism.
- Five individuals charged in the explosives supply case.
- Investigation reveals a complex supply chain.
- Ongoing efforts to apprehend absconders.
- Commitment to national security against left-wing extremism.
Raipur/Jagdalpur, Dec 30 (NationPress) In a substantial setback to the outlawed CPI (Maoist) terrorist group, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has submitted a supplementary charge-sheet against five suspects, including four who are currently on the run, for their alleged involvement in the acquisition and distribution of explosives aimed at assaults on security personnel.
This charge-sheet was presented on Tuesday to the NIA Special Court located in Jagdalpur. The individuals charged include the captured suspect Manish Sodhi alias Hurra, and fugitives Sodhi Kesa, Manila, Madkam Kesa, and Sodhi Lakhma, all hailing from Sukma district in Chhattisgarh. They face charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Manish Sodhi was apprehended by the NIA in July 2025, marking a pivotal development in the case.
With this recent filing, the agency has now charged a total of seven individuals in relation to this matter.
NIA investigations have shown that the five accused were actively engaged in sourcing explosives and other damning materials for the banned CPI (Maoist). These supplies were intended for members of the outfit's People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion No. 1 and operatives active in the Jagargunda region of Sukma district.
Investigation findings revealed that the Maoists had plans to fabricate Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) using the provided materials, primarily targeting security forces involved in anti-Naxal operations across the Bastar region.
The case traces back to the Chhattisgarh state police, who initiated it after detaining two individuals—Mantosh Mandal and S. Nagarjun—on September 25, 2024. Interrogations of these suspects led to the confiscation of significant explosive materials, such as tiffin bombs, detonators, potassium nitrate, aluminum metal powder, packaging wrappers, Naxal propaganda, and mobile devices.
Subsequent inquiries unveiled a funding network for terrorism and a complex supply chain directly linking the seized items to Maoist operations.
In December 2024, the NIA took over the investigation, amplifying efforts to dismantle the network. The agency asserted that the suspects were in unlawful possession of materials specifically intended to enhance Maoist terror activities.
Ongoing investigations are focused on capturing the absconding accused and revealing more profound connections within the supply chain. This operation highlights the NIA's dedication to mitigating threats posed by left-wing extremism in India's red corridor.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of thorough investigations like these. The NIA's actions are crucial in dismantling the supply chains that fuel terrorism. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and informed about threats to our national security while supporting efforts to eliminate left-wing extremism.
NationPress
08/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges have been filed against the accused?
The accused face multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code, the Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Who are the individuals involved in the case?
The case involves five individuals: one arrested (Manish Sodhi) and four absconders (Sodhi Kesa, Manila, Madkam Kesa, and Sodhi Lakhma).
What was the intent behind acquiring explosives?
The explosives were intended for attacks on security forces, particularly targeting those involved in anti-Naxal operations.
When did the investigation begin?
The investigation commenced after the arrest of two individuals on September 25, 2024.
How is the NIA involved in this case?
The NIA took over the investigation in December 2024 to intensify efforts in dismantling the supply chain supporting Maoist activities.
