In the rugged terrains of Chhattisgarh, where the battle against Naxal insurgency rages on, a tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday, claiming the lives of three brave soldiers from paramilitary forces while leaving 14 others injured. The encounter with Maoists occurred along the border of Sukma and Bijapur districts, adding another grim chapter to the ongoing conflict.
The Bastar police revealed that the incident transpired near Tekalgudem village during a joint operation by security personnel. The operation followed the establishment of a new camp in Tekalgudem, identified as a Maoist stronghold. The personnel, belonging to Special Task Force, District Reserve Guard, and the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), were conducting a search in nearby Jonaguda-Aliguda villages when Maoists initiated an attack, leading to a fierce encounter.
Inspector General of Police, Sunderaj P., provided insights into the situation, stating, “After setting up the camp, the personnel…was carrying out search in nearby villages when Maoists opened fire and encounter started.” The injured jawans were being evacuated from the forest, with authorities awaiting more details on the unfolding encounter.
This recent incident underscores the escalating anti-Maoist operations in Chhattisgarh since November 2023. State police data reveals a significant surge in operations during November and December, indicating a heightened response to curb Naxal activities. The region has witnessed a series of security measures, including the establishment of new camps and intensified patrolling.
Notably, December 2023 saw the highest number of Maoists arrested in a month, with 59 ultras apprehended by security forces. The preceding months also witnessed a surge in operations, resulting in the arrest of 173 Maoists between July and December, along with 12 fatalities in gunfights with security forces.
The recent attack occurred in the context of the broader efforts to combat Naxalism, as evidenced by the establishment of new police camps and increased security measures in the region. Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s call to end the Maoist menace within the next three years reflects the government’s determination to address the persistent threat.
This tragic incident is not an isolated occurrence, as security personnel in Chhattisgarh have faced repeated attacks in recent months. During the state’s two-phase polls in December, the banned CPI (Maoist) targeted security personnel, resulting in casualties and injuries.
In a parallel development earlier in the day, security forces successfully averted a major tragedy by recovering two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Dantewada district. The bombs, weighing 5 kg and 3 kg, were planted on dirt tracks to target patrolling security personnel. The timely intervention of the Bomb Disposal Squad prevented a potential disaster.
As the nation mourns the loss of three brave soldiers and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by security forces in their relentless battle against Naxal insurgency in Chhattisgarh.