Who Are the Two Maoists Charged by NIA in the 2022 Jharkhand Arms Recovery Case?
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Synopsis
The National Investigation Agency has expanded its charges in a significant 2022 arms recovery case. Discover how two new suspects are tied to a dangerous conspiracy aimed at targeting security forces in Jharkhand, revealing the ongoing struggle against Maoist insurgency in India.
Key Takeaways
- NIA's commitment: The NIA is actively pursuing charges against individuals involved in Maoist insurgency.
- Growing number of accused: The total number of accused in the case has reached 25.
- Legal implications: Charges are filed under multiple serious acts, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
- National security focus: The operation emphasizes the ongoing threat to national security posed by Maoist activities.
- Continued investigations: The NIA is determined to dismantle the entire CPI (Maoist) network.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has unveiled a new chargesheet, identifying two additional suspects in connection with a 2022 incident involving the recovery of arms and ammunition linked to a conspiracy orchestrated by the outlawed CPI (Maoist) to assault security forces in Jharkhand.
The NIA has filed charges against Ranthu Oraon and Niraj Singh Kherwar, both residents of Jharkhand, bringing the total number of accused in case RC-02/2022/NIA/RNC to 25.
These individuals are being charged under the Arms Act, Explosive Substance Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Following a tip-off, local police in collaboration with CRPF personnel executed a joint operation in the forests of Bulbul, Lohardaga, Jharkhand, in February 2022. This operation targeted a gathering of CPI (Maoist) members who were plotting an attack on security forces in the Bauxite Mines Area, aiming to retaliate for the capture of their senior commander, Prashant Bose.
The assembly was led by the organization’s Regional Commander Ravindra Ganjhu, along with other active members, including Balram Oraon and Muneshwar Ganjhu, alongside 45-60 additional cadres.
As the security forces advanced towards Bahabar Jungle, they encountered a barrage of gunfire from CPI (Maoist) cadres at Harkatta Toli and Bangla Pat. An ensuing encounter led to a thorough search of the area, resulting in the confiscation of a substantial cache of arms and ammunition.
Initially, the Jharkhand Police had filed charges against nine individuals. Subsequently, from August 2023 through May 2025, the NIA submitted five supplementary chargesheets against 23 individuals, which included the nine already charged by Jharkhand police, with additional counts instituted by the NIA.
During the investigation, the NIA uncovered that the conspiracy was intended for executing terrorist acts and armed rebellion, aiming to undermine the integrity, security, and sovereignty of the nation and to destabilize the government.
Evidence gathered by the NIA against the detained suspects, including a Zonal Commander, Sub-Zonal Commander, Area Commander, and armed cadres, also implicated other CPI (Maoist) members and their supporters. The NIA continues to pursue other co-conspirators as part of its initiative to dismantle the CPI (Maoist) network across the country.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the ongoing threats posed by insurgent groups like CPI (Maoist). The NIA's actions reflect a determined approach to safeguard the nation and uphold the rule of law. Continuous efforts are essential to dismantle these networks and ensure the safety of our citizens.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the NIA's chargesheet?
The NIA's chargesheet highlights the seriousness of the conspiracy orchestrated by CPI (Maoist) to undermine national security, indicating the agency's commitment to tackling insurgency.
Who are the new suspects named in the case?
The newly charged suspects are Ranthu Oraon and Niraj Singh Kherwar, both from Jharkhand, bringing the total accused to 25.
What laws are the accused charged under?
The accused are charged under the Arms Act, Explosive Substance Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
What triggered the joint operation by police and CRPF?
A tip-off regarding a gathering of CPI (Maoist) members plotting an attack on security forces led to the joint operation.
What was the outcome of the operation?
The operation resulted in an encounter with Maoist cadres and the seizure of a significant amount of arms and ammunition.
