What Happened During the Encounter with Maoists in Jharkhand's Palamu?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Palamu, Jharkhand, two police jawans lost their lives while another was seriously injured during a fierce encounter with Maoists. The tragic event underscores the ongoing conflict in the region and the dangers faced by law enforcement in combating extremist groups.
Key Takeaways
- Two police jawans were killed in a gunfight with TSPC Maoists.
- The encounter occurred in the Kedal forest of Palamu.
- One jawan is in critical condition at the hospital.
- Authorities are conducting extensive operations against Maoists.
- The region has a history of Maoist activity.
Palamu (Jharkhand), Sep 4 (NationPress) - In a tragic incident, two police jawans lost their lives and another was critically injured during a brutal confrontation with Maoists affiliated with the banned Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC) in Palamu district, officials reported on Thursday.
The clash erupted in the thick Kedal forest under the Manatu police station from 1 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday while a police unit was engaged in a search operation.
Palamu Superintendent of Police (SP) Reeshma Ramesan confirmed the deaths of the two jawans.
Officials indicated that the operation stemmed from intelligence reports suggesting that TSPC’s notorious zonal commander Shashikant Ganjhu, who has a bounty of Rs 10 lakh on him, might return to his home village Kedal during the Karma festival.
As security forces approached, Ganjhu and his armed group allegedly noticed the police team and opened fire, prompting a fierce exchange where three officers were injured.
The wounded jawans were promptly taken to Medinirai Medical College and Hospital in Daltonganj, where two were declared dead.
The deceased personnel have been identified as Santan Kumar and Sunil Ram.
According to police, one of the deceased was assigned as the bodyguard for the Palamu Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP).
The third injured officer is currently receiving treatment at the hospital, with his condition reported as critical.
The Kedal-Manatu belt has historically been viewed as a stronghold for the TSPC, with Ganjhu leading the group’s operations across Palamu and Chatra districts.
Authorities believe Ganjhu plays a pivotal role in Maoist extortion and violent activities in the area.
In the aftermath of the encounter, security forces have escalated combing operations and have sealed off surrounding villages to apprehend the Maoists.
Paying homage to the fallen jawans, SP Ramesan stated, “Their sacrifice will not go in vain. The police are wholeheartedly dedicated to eradicating extremist elements from the region.”
She also affirmed that all necessary arrangements are being made for the treatment of the injured personnel.
Point of View
This incident reflects the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement in combating Maoist insurgency in Jharkhand. The sacrifice of the police jawans serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against extremism, highlighting the importance of continued efforts to restore peace and security in affected regions.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the encounter in Palamu?
The encounter was initiated based on intelligence reports indicating the movement of TSPC's zonal commander, Shashikant Ganjhu, during the Karma festival.
What are the current conditions of the injured personnel?
One jawan is critically injured and receiving treatment at Medinirai Medical College and Hospital.
What actions are being taken post-encounter?
Security forces have intensified combing operations and cordoned off surrounding villages to neutralize the Maoists.
What is the background of the TSPC?
The Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC) is a banned Maoist organization known for extortion and violent activities in the region.
How are officials responding to the loss of the jawans?
Local authorities have expressed their condolences and reaffirmed their commitment to combating extremist elements in the area.
