What Happened in Chhattisgarh? Woman Maoist Neutralised in Bijapur Encounter

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The encounter in Bijapur resulted in the neutralisation of a female Maoist combatant.
- Security forces are actively engaged in combating left-wing extremism in Chhattisgarh.
- A significant cache of arms and ammunition was recovered during the encounter.
- The region remains volatile, with authorities on high alert.
- Efforts to address the underlying socio-economic issues are crucial for long-term peace.
Raipur, Aug 6 (NationPress) A woman in camouflage fatigues was killed during an exchange of gunfire between security forces and armed insurgents in the Gangalur area of Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, on Wednesday.
The encounter took place amidst a joint anti-LWE operation by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Special Task Force (STF) in the thick forests under the Gangalur police station's jurisdiction.
According to senior police officials, the operation was initiated following credible intelligence about the presence of Maoist cadres in the area.
As the security personnel enhanced their search efforts, they came under intense fire from the insurgents, resulting in a fierce gun battle. Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P confirmed the incident, stating that this operation is part of a sustained campaign against Maoist activity in the region.
“The area remains under active surveillance, and further search operations are ongoing,” he stated. With this recent action, the number of Maoists neutralized in Chhattisgarh this year has reportedly surpassed 227, predominantly in the Bastar division.
During the encounter, one uniformed woman—believed to be a Maoist combatant—was neutralized.
Her body was retrieved along with a weapon, a backpack, and daily-use items such as a knife, according to officials. The scene of the encounter also revealed a significant cache of arms and ammunition.
Among the recovered items were INSAS rifles, explosives, and other high-grade combat materials, suggesting the presence of a well-equipped Maoist unit.
The identity of the deceased has yet to be officially determined, and further forensic examination is in progress.
The Gangalur forests have historically been a hotspot for Maoist insurgency, and security forces have bolstered their presence in recent months.
Wednesday’s encounter highlights the ongoing volatility of the region and the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating left-wing extremism.
Authorities have put the area on high alert, and reinforcements have been dispatched to thwart any potential retaliatory action.