CRPF Intensifies Operations Against Maoist Insurgents in Jharkhand's Saranda Forest
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), in collaboration with state police units, has significantly escalated its campaign against left-wing extremists (LWE) across Jharkhand, with particular focus on the dense Saranda forest region in West Singhbhum district. This area is known to harbor key Maoist leadership, including politburo member Misir Besra and his commanders, who are currently in hiding.
Strategic Deployment and Operational Surge
Security forces are working diligently to realize Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directive to eradicate left-wing extremism from India by March 31, 2025. Inspector General (CRPF) Saket Singh provided a detailed assessment of the situation, stating, "The Maoist presence in Saranda has been substantially diminished from approximately 150 individuals at the start of 2025 to just 50 at present. Their overall strength across the entire state now stands at around 65. We are confident these remaining elements will be neutralized shortly." Authorities have also made repeated appeals for Maoists to surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Operational statistics reveal a sustained offensive: 298 operations were conducted in January 2025, following 187 in December 2025 and 133 in November 2025. The most intensive month was May 2025, with 333 operations executed. Over the past 13 months, beginning January 2025, security forces have maintained relentless pressure on insurgent groups.
Significant Achievements and Tactical Advantages
A major success occurred on January 22, 2025, when forces eliminated 17 Maoists, including central committee member Anal Da, during a decisive encounter in the Saranda forest. To bolster these efforts, six additional CRPF companies were recently redeployed from other parts of Jharkhand to Saranda, bringing the total number of companies in the region to 31. This deployment includes specialized units such as the CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), Jharkhand Jaguar forces, and local district police.
The establishment of permanent CRPF camps within Saranda has provided multiple strategic benefits. Officials explained that these camps enhance operational reach, improve response times, and severely restrict the movement and regrouping capabilities of Maoist cadres.
Comprehensive Seizures and Disruptions
Throughout 2025, security personnel achieved remarkable results in dismantling Maoist infrastructure:
- Busted 152 Maoist camps, hideouts, and defensive positions (morchas)
- Engaged in 24 armed encounters across the state
- Recovered 325 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along with cane and arrow bombs
- Seized 4,479 kilograms of explosives and 19,017 detonators
- Confiscated 97 weapons and 67,341 rounds of ammunition
A substantial portion of these recoveries originated from the Kolhan region and the Saranda forest area, highlighting these as primary conflict zones. The coordinated efforts have systematically degraded the logistical and operational capacity of left-wing extremist groups in Jharkhand.
