Raipur
Security forces killed six Naxals, including three women, in an encounter near the Chhattisgarh-Maharashtra border in Bijapur district. One injured Naxal was also arrested in a separate operation.
The joint team of Bijapur District Reserve Group (DRG), Dantewada DRG, and Special Task Force (STF) carried out the encounter in the National Park area. Forces recovered automatic weapons, including an INSAS rifle, a Sten gun, a .303 rifle, explosives, and other Naxal material from the site.
Police suspect the operation successfully cornered a major Naxal leader.
Meanwhile, a separate exchange of fire occurred between the police and Naxals in the Annaram forests in the Taralaguda area on the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border. During the subsequent search operation, security personnel apprehended one injured Naxal, who is currently undergoing treatment and is being questioned.
Bastar Range Inspector General (IG) Sundarraj P. termed the operation a “decisive and crucial advantage” for the security forces. He said the success comes at a time when the Maoist organisation is “leaderless, directionless, and demoralised,” having been confined to its few remaining strongholds.
Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma reiterated the government’s offer to Naxals. He said those who surrender will be provided a safe path to return and will be rehabilitated. The Minister affirmed that search operations will continue, and any attack by Naxals will be met with a “befitting reply.”
