NIA Files Additional Charges Against Six Maoists in CRPF Camp Attack Case
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has submitted an additional chargesheet against six suspects, including three who are currently on the run, in relation to the January 2024 attack by Maoists on Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camps located in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district.
This action further reinforces the ongoing inquiry into one of the most brazen assaults executed by members of the prohibited CPI (Maoist) group.
The meticulously coordinated attack utilized substantial firepower, targeting the newly inaugurated Dharmavaram camp alongside two neighboring facilities at Chintawagu and Pamed.
Maoist operatives, equipped with automatic firearms and locally produced Barrel Grenade Launchers (BGLs), inflicted injuries on a dozen CRPF personnel.
They also made an attempt to seize weapons, ammunition, and personal items from the security forces, emphasizing the organization’s goal of augmenting its weaponry through violent incursions.
The chargesheet identifies three apprehended suspects: Awalam Bhima, Madkam Nanda, and Madkam Deva, also known as Ratan.
The absconders include a member of the CPI (Maoist) Special Zonal Committee, indicating that senior leadership was involved in planning the attack.
All six individuals have been charged under stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.
With this supplementary filing, the total number of individuals implicated in the case has escalated to 23, following the earlier indictment of 17 Maoists in June 2025.
Investigators disclosed that the group had crafted dummy models of the target camps to train its members, undertaking surveillance missions prior to the actual assault. These actions formed part of a larger conspiracy aimed at waging war against the Government of India.
The NIA officially took over the investigation on February 9, 2024, and continues to examine the roles of 21 named individuals as well as approximately 250-300 unidentified armed militants.
Officials highlight that this investigation is integral to a broader strategy to dismantle the Maoist network, disrupt its supply chains, and diminish its operational capabilities within the region.
The case presents a significant challenge for India’s counter-insurgency efforts, illustrating the ongoing threat posed by left-wing extremism.