Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region witnessed a significant victory against Maoist insurgency when security forces neutralized Rajesh Punem, a Rs 5 lakh rewarded Naxal leader, during an intense gunfight near the Dantewada-Bijapur border.
The action stemmed from credible tips on March 3 about Maoists stashing arms in the hilly forests linking Gumlanar, Girsapara, and Nelgoda. A well-coordinated team comprising DRG jawans and Bastar Fighters, under DSP Rahul Kumar Uike’s command, advanced for a search around midday.
Tension peaked as night approached. Lurking Bhairamgarh Area Committee militants—about 10 strong—sprang a surprise attack with heavy automatic fire between 8:30 and 9:00 PM. Security troops responded with discipline, holding positions and counter-firing while urging the rebels to surrender.
The Maoists, overwhelmed, scattered into the night, leaving behind Punem’s corpse. Forces seized an arsenal: SLR and INSAS rifles, a pistol, communication devices, ammo, and supplies. Identified via surrendered cadres, Punem’s elimination disrupts key operations in the area.
Vigilant against booby traps, the team swept the zone, secured routes, and dominated the terrain without losses. All personnel returned safely to base, with ongoing patrols underscoring the sustained campaign to eradicate Naxal presence from these remote bastions.