In a significant development in the ongoing fight against Maoists, four insurgents were killed during an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region. The clash, which claimed the life of a District Reserve Guard (DRG) head constable, occurred on Saturday evening in the dense forests of South Abujhmaad, situated along the Narayanpur-Dantewada district border.
Details of the Encounter
The encounter began when a joint team of security forces launched an anti-Maoist operation in the region. Following an intense exchange of fire that lasted into the night, the bodies of four Maoists were recovered. Automatic weapons, including an AK-47 rifle and a self-loading rifle (SLR), were also seized from the site.
Head Constable Sannu Karam of the DRG succumbed to injuries sustained during the face-off. Security forces are continuing their search operations in the area to ensure complete safety and neutralize any remaining threats.
Rising Toll in Maoist Conflict
Chhattisgarh has witnessed a sustained crackdown on Maoist activities. In 2024 alone, over 200 Maoists were killed in operations led by security forces, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah pledging to eradicate Maoist insurgency by March 2026.
The Bastar region, a Maoist stronghold comprising districts like Bastar, Dantewada, Kanker, Bijapur, Narayanpur, Kondagaon, and Sukma, accounted for 217 of the total Maoist fatalities last year. In addition to the killings, security forces arrested over 800 Maoists, while 802 surrendered and laid down their arms.
Despite these successes, the fight has come at a cost. In 2024, 18 security personnel lost their lives in clashes with Maoists, and 65 civilians were killed in incidents of Maoist violence.
Continued Vigilance
The latest encounter underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the Maoist-affected regions of Chhattisgarh. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to rooting out insurgency and ensuring the safety of civilians in the conflict zones.
Sourcese By Agencies
