Security forces struck a decisive blow against Maoists in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur on Thursday, eliminating two rebels in a predawn clash near the Indravati River. The operation yielded an arsenal of rifles, ammunition, and bomb-making materials, dealing a setback to insurgent operations in the Red Corridor.
Acting on specific intelligence about a Maoist camp, a coordinated team of police and paramilitary units ventured into the challenging Indravati National Park terrain. The early morning patrol quickly escalated into a firefight when insurgents ambushed the personnel, leading to a prolonged battle in the forested hills.
Post-encounter searches uncovered the bodies of two uniformed Maoists, armed with sophisticated weaponry. Among the seized items were SLR and INSAS rifles, a 12-bore gun, detonators, and explosives. Bijapur SP Jitendra Yadav described the outcome as a ‘major success’ in ongoing anti-Naxal campaigns.
IGP Bastar Range Sundarraj Pattingal revealed that intensified combing operations are in progress across adjacent forests, with more updates anticipated. This incident adds to the mounting losses for Maoists in Bastar, where security grids are tightening.
Meanwhile, justice caught up with two more extremists in Dantewada, where a local court sentenced Hunga alias Guttam Sodi and Joga Kudami to five-year jail terms plus Rs 5,000 fines. Arrested from Sukma’s Pordem village last May, the pair was found with improvised explosive devices.
Charges under key anti-terror and explosives laws were proven in court, with evidence showing their control over deadly bombs. The verdict, including extra jail time for non-payment of fines, reinforces the legal hammer against Maoist foot soldiers.
As Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division sees a surge in such operations, these events signal a shifting momentum, with forces gaining ground against a fading insurgency through smart intel, swift action, and firm judicial resolve.