Bijapur-Chhattisgarh: In a major counter-insurgency operation in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region on Saturday, security forces eliminated at least 14 Naxals in two separate engagements, officials confirmed.
The operations, based on specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of armed Maoist cadres in southern Bastar, were conducted by teams of the District Reserve Guard (DRG). The encounters occurred in the districts of Bijapur and Sukma, with exchanges of fire beginning around 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM, respectively.
Following the operations, the bodies of 14 Maoists were recovered—two from the Bijapur encounter site and twelve from Sukma. Security forces also seized a significant arsenal of weapons from the locations, including AK-47 rifles, INSAS rifles, and SLR rifles.
Commenting on the sustained anti-Naxal campaign, Bastar Range Inspector General of Police, P. Sundarraj, stated that the year 2025 had been “historic and decisive” for the region. He highlighted major strides in security, public welfare, and development.
“Precise, intelligence-driven operations have enabled decisive control over Naxal activities. The dismantling of top leadership, large-scale weapon recoveries, and the secure surrender of senior cadres have laid a strong foundation for lasting peace,” IG Sundarraj said.
Officials noted that the enhanced security environment has directly and positively impacted developmental works in Bastar. The strengthening of road connectivity, telecommunications, healthcare, and education infrastructure, alongside the improved reach of government welfare schemes in remote areas, has been a key focus.
The operations mark a continuation of intensified efforts by security forces to curb Left-Wing Extremism in the region.
