RAIPUR: A notorious Maoist commander was killed and his AK-47 assault rifle recovered during an ongoing encounter between security forces and armed cadres in the south Bijapur region of Chhattisgarh on Thursday morning. The intense firefight broke out in the dense forest zone, marking a significant development in the ongoing anti-Naxal operations in the state.
Encounter Details and Timeline
The encounter erupted around 7:30 am in the Chinnagellur–Tarrem area, following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of armed Maoist cadres in the region. Joint teams of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) had launched a comprehensive search operation based on these credible leads.
Ongoing Security Operation
Police officials confirmed that intermittent firing has been continuing since morning as the operation remains underway in the challenging terrain of south Bijapur. The security forces have maintained a strategic position while engaging with the armed insurgents in this dense forest area.
Casualty and Recovery
From the encounter site, security personnel have recovered the body of one Maoist along with an AK-47 assault rifle. Preliminary identification suggests the slain cadre is Udham Singh, a Maoist commander and Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) associated with Platoon No. 30.
Significance of the Neutralized Maoist
Udham Singh was considered one of the most active ground-level operatives in the south Bastar region, making his elimination a substantial blow to Maoist operations in the area. His role as a commander and divisional committee member indicates his importance within the Maoist organizational structure.
Official Statements and Verification Process
A police statement clarified that detailed confirmation regarding the identity, rank, and specific role of the deceased Maoist will be shared only after the completion of the search operation and thorough post-encounter verification procedures. This cautious approach ensures accuracy in reporting sensitive security matters.
Continued Security Measures
The operation continues to progress with additional reinforcements deployed in the region. Security forces are conducting intensive combing operations to eliminate any remaining threats, including potential hidden explosives or additional Maoist cadres in the area.
The strategic deployment reflects the security establishment's commitment to maintaining pressure on left-wing extremist groups while ensuring the safety of local communities in the conflict-affected regions of Chhattisgarh.
