Major Anti-Naxal Operation in Gadchiroli Claims 7 Maoist Lives
In a significant blow to left-wing extremism, at least seven Naxals were neutralized during a fierce encounter with specialized police forces in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district on Friday. The operation, which has been ongoing for several days, marks a critical success for security forces in the region.
Top Maoist Leader Among the Fatalities
Officials confirmed that among the seven deceased Naxals was a prominent leader identified as Prabhakar, who hailed from Telangana. Prabhakar carried a substantial bounty of Rs 25 lakh on his head, indicating his high-ranking status within the Maoist hierarchy. His elimination represents a strategic victory for the security apparatus combating insurgency in central India.
Multi-Day Police Operation Details
The Maharashtra police initiated this intensive operation three days prior to the encounter, focusing on the area near Phodewada village along the sensitive Gadchiroli-Narayanpur border with Chhattisgarh. Intelligence inputs had indicated the presence of cadres belonging to Company Number 10 of the Maoist organization, prompting the deployment of substantial force.
According to official statements, the operation involved an impressive deployment of 14 C-60 units under the supervision of the Sub-Divisional Police Officer. The C-60 is a highly trained, specialized combat unit of the Maharashtra police specifically created to counter Naxal activities in the Gadchiroli and Gondia districts.
Progressive Reinforcement and Camp Busting
As the operation progressed, police forces achieved preliminary success on Wednesday by dismantling two Naxalite camps in the area. Recognizing the need for additional strength, authorities deployed four more C-60 units along with one Quick Action Team (QAT) unit from the Central Reserve Police Force on Thursday morning as reinforcement.
This layered approach demonstrates the strategic planning behind the operation, combining local expertise with central forces to maximize effectiveness against the well-entrenched insurgent groups.
Casualties on Both Sides
The encounter resulted in casualties among security forces as well. A brave jawan from the special force, identified as Deepak Chinna Madavi, succumbed to injuries sustained during the anti-Naxal operation. After being critically wounded, Deepak was airlifted to Bhamragad for emergency medical treatment but unfortunately passed away during care.
Another injured jawan, Joga Madavi, was also airlifted to Bhamragad for medical attention. Police officials have confirmed that Joga is now out of immediate danger and will be transferred to Gadchiroli shortly for further recovery.
Ongoing Security Measures
Authorities have emphasized that the operation remains active and ongoing in the region. The continued presence of security forces aims to completely clear the area of any remaining Naxal elements and prevent regrouping of the insurgent cadres.
This encounter represents one of the more significant engagements in recent months in the ongoing battle against left-wing extremism in central India, highlighting both the persistent threat and the determined response from security forces.
