In a major counter-insurgency success, security forces in Chhattisgarh have neutralized a total of 14 Naxalites in two separate fierce gun battles within the Bastar region. The encounters, which mark one of the most significant strikes against left-wing extremism this year, unfolded in the dense forests of Narayanpur district.
Dual Encounters in Dense Forest Terrain
The operations were launched based on precise intelligence inputs about the presence of senior cadres of the Maoist organization. The first clash occurred in the forest near Boden village, while the second confrontation took place in the Tekmeta area. Both locations are known to be strongholds of Naxal activity, presenting challenging terrain for security personnel.
Joint teams comprising the District Reserve Guard (DRG), the Special Task Force (STF), and the Bastar Fighters, all units of the Chhattisgarh Police, were involved in the meticulously planned operations. The forces came under heavy fire from the Naxalites, leading to prolonged exchanges of gunfire.
Recovery of Weapons and Identification
Following the encounters, security personnel conducted thorough searches of the areas. They recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from the sites. The haul included .303 rifles, 12-bore guns, muzzle-loading weapons, and a large number of explosives and detonators. The recovery of such a significant arsenal indicates that the neutralized cadres were heavily armed and potentially involved in planning disruptive activities.
The process of identifying the deceased Naxalites is currently underway. Preliminary reports suggest that some of those killed were carrying rewards on their heads, pointing to their senior status within the Maoist hierarchy. The exact identities and the specific rewards are being verified by the authorities.
A Significant Blow to Maoist Infrastructure
This successful operation is seen as a critical setback for the Naxalite movement in one of its core regions. The Bastar division, encompassing districts like Narayanpur, has long been a hotbed of left-wing extremism. The elimination of 14 cadres in a single day disrupts the group's operational capabilities and morale.
Security analysts highlight that such operations are the result of improved intelligence networks and the sustained pressure exerted by security forces in the region. The state police have intensified their anti-Naxal campaigns, focusing on penetrating deep into forest hideouts.
No casualties were reported among the security forces during these encounters, underscoring the tactical precision with which the operations were executed. The area has been secured, and further combing operations are in progress to ensure no remaining threats are lurking in the vicinity.
This decisive action reaffirms the government's commitment to eradicating the menace of Naxalism and restoring lasting peace and development in the conflict-affected regions of Chhattisgarh.
