In a significant development in the ongoing battle against Maoist insurgency, a total of 29 Maoists were neutralisd in an encounter in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district, located within the Bastar region. The encounter, which occurred on April 16, 2024, also resulted in injuries to three security personnel.
“On April 16, 2024, a joint search team comprising of Kanker DRG and BSF was launched for searching operations in the Chhottebetiya PS limit area in Kanker District,” police stated.
They further stated that at around 2 pm in the afternoon, there was an exchange of fire between Maoists and security forces comprising the Binagunda-Koragutta jungles of the Chhottebetiya Police Station area of Kanker District.
“After the encounter, the area was searched and 29 dead bodies of Maoists, along with a huge cache of AK 47 rifles, INSAS/SLR/Carbine/.303 rifles and huge quantities of arms ammunition, were recovered from the spot. Three of the jawans were injured in the encounter and their condition is out of danger,” it stated.
The police stated that the injured jawans are being airlifted to a higher centre for better treatment.
Further details are awaited.
The encounter marks a significant blow to the Maoists operating in the region and underscores the ongoing efforts by security forces to curb the menace of left-wing extremism in Chhattisgarh. Maoist violence has long been a challenge for authorities in the state, particularly in the Bastar region, where the insurgents operate in dense forested areas, often targeting security forces and disrupting development initiatives.
Encounters such as these highlight the risks faced by security personnel in their efforts to maintain law and order in areas affected by Maoism. Despite the challenges, security forces continue to carry out operations to root out Naxal elements and restore peace and stability in the region.
The successful outcome of the operation underscores the determination of the security forces to combat Maoist insurgency and maintain the security and integrity of the state. The state government has reiterated its commitment to addressing the root causes of Maoism and implementing development initiatives to bring about positive change in the lives of the people living in Maoist-affected areas. (With Inputs from ANI)
