Chhattisgarh: Security Forces Neutralize Three Maoists in Bijapur-Dantewada Clash

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Three Maoists eliminated in Bijapur district.
- Operation part of a mission for a Maoist-free India by March 2026.
- Heavy ammunition and explosives seized during the encounter.
- Ongoing efforts to identify the deceased.
- Union Home Minister's appeal for disarmament remains unheeded.
Raipur, April 12 (NationPress) The Indravati dense forest area in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, has witnessed a significant blow to Maoists as security forces have successfully taken down three of them.
According to police officials, "The bodies of the three individuals, clad in camouflage uniforms, were retrieved from the area during a coordinated effort by security forces that commenced on Saturday morning."
They reported that a substantial cache of ammunition and explosives was also discovered at the site of the encounter, and efforts to identify the deceased are ongoing.
Additionally, an official indicated that the encounter in the region is still in progress.
The operation is part of a broader initiative aimed at achieving a Maoist-free India by March 2026.
Despite the recent call from Union Home Minister Amit Shah for Maoists to abandon their arms and reintegrate into society, many continue their criminal activities.
The joint security team initiated the operation based on intelligence gathered at 9 am on Saturday, as stated by police officials.
Recently, Maoists expressed a desire for conditional surrender; however, the Chhattisgarh government retorted that negotiations would only be feasible once they disarm.
The Union Home Minister urged all Maoists to engage in ongoing developmental efforts, yet no factions have stepped forward.
Amit Shah reiterated that security forces are resolute in their mission to achieve a Naxal-free India by the early part of next year.
Notably, on March 20, 2025, two anti-Maoist operations in Bastar resulted in the elimination of around 30 individuals identified as Maoists.
These operations were part of a series of 11 conducted by security forces throughout 2025, culminating in the neutralization of 142 Maoists overall.
Among the year's significant milestones, security forces neutralized 31 Maoists on February 9 and 16 Naxalites on March 25, targeting various districts, including Bastar, Dantewada, Bijapur, and Narayanpur.