Crushing the Maoist Threat : Security Forces Neutralize 29 Maoists in 2024

In a strategic move to fortify the security infrastructure in the Naxal-affected Bastar region, authorities have ramped up efforts by establishing a network of new security camps. Over the past six months, the security forces have strategically positioned 14 new camps across the dense forests of Bijapur, Sukma, and Kanker districts. These camps are pivotal in the state's ongoing campaign to dismantle the Naxal stronghold and restore peace in the region.

As part of this intensified effort, Security Forces (SFs) in Chhattisgarh have launched relentless operations against Maoist terrorism, resulting in a series of successful encounters that have dealt significant blows to the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) terrorists. This coordinated approach reflects a determined push to root out terrorism and bring stability to the area, marking a critical phase in the battle against extremism.

The latest engagement occurred on March 24, when SFs engaged in a fierce gun battle with Maoist terrorists in the jungle hill area between Dodi Tumnar and Gondpalli villages under Jagargunda Police Station limits in Sukma District. The encounter claimed the life of a prominent Maoist ‘commander’ identified as Aavalam Podiya alias Sannu (25) of Gangaloor Area Committee. This operation, conducted by soldiers of Bastar Fighter, CoBRA, STF, and DRG, also led to the recovery of a significant cache of explosives, two printer machines, and Maoist paraphernalia from the site.

This encounter adds to a series of successful operations against Maoist extremists in the region. On March 23, two Maoist terrorists were eliminated during an anti-Naxal operation in a forest area under the Gangaloor Police Station limits in Bijapur District. This operation, carried out at the tri-junction of Bijapur, Dantewada, and Sukma Districts, underscores SFs’ relentless efforts to root out extremism from Maoist bastions.

Prior to this, on March 19, SFs engaged in a fierce encounter with Maoist terrorists in a forest near Purangel village of Gampur area under Kirandul Police Station limits in Dantewada District. This encounter resulted in the death of two Maoist terrorists , including a woman, during a joint operation involving personnel from various security forces units.

In another operation on March 16, SFs clashed with Maoists in the forest near Chilparas village under the Koyalibeda Police Station area in Kanker District. The encounter led to the killing of a Communist terrorist, whose identity is yet to be ascertained. Furthermore, on March 15, two Maoist were killed in an encounter with the Police in a forest near Hingmeta village under Bedre Police Station limits in Bijapur District. The slain Maoists were identified as Suresh Muhanda (30) and Sannu Muhanda (20), both residents of Hingmeta village.

Moving back to January, the SFs continued their operations with precision. On January 30, two Maoist terrorists were killed in an encounter in Bijapur District, as confirmed by a letter released by the Maoists themselves. On January 20, three Maoist terrorists, including two women, were killed in a gun battle with Security Forces during a search operation in Bijapur District. Similarly, on January 16, a Maoist terrorist involved in the killing of three Policemen was killed in a gun battle with Security Forces in Dantewada District. Lastly, on January 12, a Maoist militia commander identified as Toya Potam alias Somlu was killed in an encounter with Security Forces in Bijapur District.

In a stark contrast to previous years, the ongoing anti-Maoist operations in the current year have witnessed a remarkable surge, with 29 maoists neutralized already, compared to a mere 2 in the same quarter last year. This notable escalation can be attributed to the proactive measures undertaken by our Security Forces, bolstered by timely intelligence inputs. These concerted efforts have effectively crippled Maoist activities, ensuring the safety and freedom of our citizens.

As the years have progressed, successive counter-insurgency operations have confined Naxalites (CPI-Maoist) to small pockets or areas. However, their persistence in carrying out attacks reflects their ongoing efforts to assert their presence. It is evident that the relentless efforts of Security Forces (SFs) have significantly constrained the Naxalites, confining them to limited territories.

These encounters highlight the SFs unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region, disrupting Maoist networks, and dismantling their infrastructure. Moreover, the successful elimination of top Maoist leaders and terrorists has instilled a sense of security among residents, allowing them to pursue their daily activities without fear of Maoist violence.

Article by

Shomen Chandra
Intern, The Narrative