The recent closing ceremony of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s Karyakarta Vikas Varg II, held at Nagpur’s Reshim Bagh Ground on June 5, 2025, resonated with a powerful message of national resurgence. Chief guest and former Union Minister Arvind Netamji applauded the Union Government’s unwavering commitment and effective strategies in curbing maoist activities across Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division. His call for the complete eradication of Maoism underscores a shared national resolve.
This report will present comprehensive data detailing the government’s robust efforts to combat maoist activity from 2016 to 2025. It will illuminate the relentless anti-maoist operations, bold policy initiatives, and transformative infrastructure development that have dramatically reshaped these previously embattled regions.
Beyond statistics, this analysis will highlight the decisive actions taken against Maoist militants, showcasing landmark achievements – events unfolding for the first time since India’s Independence – as areas are systematically reclaimed from maoist control. Ultimately, this report will demonstrate the undeniable decline in maoist influence, supported by compelling, state-wise data from all affected regions, painting a clear picture of Bharat’s triumph over an internal menace.
Decimating the red menace: India’s unyielding stand against Left Wing Extremism
The Indian government and its valiant security forces are relentless in their commitment to dismantling Left Wing Extremism (LWE), restoring peace, and reclaiming our nation’s territory from these internal threats. Through robust policy initiatives and strategically executed operations, Bharat is systematically rooting out the maoist blight.
Major operations: Striking at the heart of the insurgency
Operation Prahar:
Launched in 2017, this joint mission by the formidable CRPF and Chhattisgarh Police directly targets the maoist menace. While primarily focused on Bastar, Chhattisgarh, its reach extends to critical LWE zones in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The unwavering objective: to eliminate extremists from their entrenched hideouts, ensuring the safety and sovereignty of our land.
Operation Black Forest:
Commencing on April 21, 2025, this marked an unprecedented, 21-day continuous anti-maoist campaign. Jointly executed with precision by the Central Reserve Police Force and the Chhattisgarh Police, it struck deep into enemy territory. The operation was strategically launched near Karreguttalu Hill (KGH), a long-standing maoist stronghold situated along the critical Chhattisgarh–Telangana border, turning a historically sensitive zone into a battlefield for liberation.
Operation Kagar:
Initiated on April 21, 2025, this powerful offensive saw joint District Reserve Guard teams of the Chhattisgarh Police, bolstered by the Special Task Force and the Central Reserve Police Force, confront the enemy head-on. The operation culminated in a massive, gruelling 50-hour-long encounter with maoists, a testament to the forces’ enduring resolve.
This decisive push followed weeks of meticulous, coordinated intelligence-gathering that precisely tracked the movements of senior Maoist commanders in the rugged, forested tri-junction of Narayanpur, Bijapur, and Dantewada districts in Chhattisgarh.
The results were unequivocal: a staggering 27 maoists were neutralised, including the highly significant elimination of Nambala Keshav Rao, alias Basavaraju, the General Secretary of the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist), dealing a crushing blow to their leadership.
Here is a list of major incidents where maoists were neutralised by Indian security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region
Maoists decimated: Six killed, firearms seized in Dantewada encounter
On November 16, 2016, a joint operation by security forces in Chhattisgarh’s insurgency-affected Dantewada district led to a significant victory against maoists. A fierce gun battle erupted in the forests of Gondpalli village, under the Aranpur police station limits, during an anti-maoist sweep. The engagement resulted in the killing of six maoists, including three women, and the arrest of two others. Forces recovered the bodies of the slain rebels and seized six firearms from the scene.
Top maoist commander neutralised in Ranidongri encounter
On June 16, 2017, in Ranidongri village, Chhattisgarh, a significant blow was dealt to maoist forces when a top commander, identified as Mahesh, was killed in an encounter with security forces. Mahesh was a high-value target with a reward of Rs 8 lakh on his head.
‘Operation Prahaar’ decimates Maoist ranks: 18 militants killed in Sukma
Between June 23 and June 25, 2017, a major joint counter-insurgency operation, aptly named ‘Prahaar’, resulted in the killing of 18 maoists in the Tondamarka area of Sukma district, Chhattisgarh. The successful operation involved a coordinated effort by the Central Reserve Police Force, its elite Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), and the state police’s Special Task Force and District Reserve Guard.
Here are the incidents rewritten separately with headlines:
Decisive strike: 15 Maoists neutralised, advanced weapons seized in Sukma
On August 6, 2018, a significant victory against maoist forces was achieved in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district. Following an intense gun battle with security forces, 15 maoists were killed. Additionally, two maoists were captured, including a senior cadre and an injured woman rebel. The operation yielded a substantial cache of sixteen high-tech weapons, which included INSAS rifles, .303 rifles, .315 rifles, and 12-bore guns. Forces also recovered explosives, detonators, electric wires, batteries, medicines, Maoist literature, banners, and posters from the encounter site, dealing a major blow to their operations.
Four maoists eliminated in Bijapur by joint forces
On November 26, 2022, a joint operation by the Central Reserve Police Force, District Reserve Guard, and Special Task Force resulted in a successful encounter in the forest area of Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh. Four maoists, comprising two men and two women, were killed during the engagement. Security forces also recovered various arms and ammunition from the spot, further disrupting Naxalite activities in the region.
Decisive victory: 30 maoists eliminated, automatic weapons seized on Chhattisgarh border
On October 4, 2024, a major blow was dealt to maoist forces in the Maad area, along the Narayanpur-Dantewada border in Chhattisgarh. In a courageous and effective encounter, police forces successfully neutralised 30 maoists. A significant cache of automatic weapons was recovered from the site, underscoring the decisive nature of this operation and the commitment of our forces to securing the region.
Justice delivered: Notorious Commander Madkam Masa among 10 maoists neutralised in Sukma
On November 22, 2024, security forces achieved a crippling victory against maoist insurgents in Bhandarpadar village, Sukma district, Chhattisgarh. In a fierce encounter, ten Maoists were eliminated, including the highly sought-after Commander Madkam Masa (42). Masa, a notorious figure, was directly responsible for the deaths of an estimated 60 to 80 brave jawans in numerous past attacks. The operation also led to the recovery of a formidable arsenal, including INSAS, AK-47, and SLR rifles, along with several other weapons, highlighting the professionalism and sacrifice of our forces in bringing justice to those who threaten our nation.
Decisive blow: Top maoist Central Committee member Ramachandra Reddy among 14 eliminated on Odisha-Chhattisgarh border
On January 22, 2025, a significant triumph for national security was achieved as at least 14 suspected maoists, including a Central Committee member carrying a staggering Rs 1 crore bounty, were neutralised in a fierce exchange of fire with security forces. This critical encounter occurred deep inside a tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district, near the Odisha border. Among the killed was Ramachandra Reddy, alias Chalapati (62), a notorious Maoist leader from Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district. Security agencies firmly believe he masterminded the brutal attack on September 23, 2018, underscoring the immense strategic importance of his elimination. This operation reaffirms the relentless resolve of our security forces in crushing the maoist menace.
Eight maoists crushed in Bijapur encounter, forces maintain dominance
On February 1, 2025, a joint team of security personnel engaged in an anti-maoist operation in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district delivered another decisive blow to the insurgency. Eight maoists were killed in a resolute encounter, demonstrating the unwavering commitment and effectiveness of our forces. The gunfight erupted as our brave personnel moved to reclaim territory, further securing the region from these internal threats and reinforcing the state’s control.
31 maoists decimated in Bijapur counter-offensive
On February 9, 2025, a resounding blow was delivered to the banned CPI (Maoist) as 31 maoist militants were killed in a decisive encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district. The fierce gunfight erupted in the morning within the strategic Indravati National Park area, as a joint team of our brave personnel executed a robust anti-maoist operation. This operation underscores the unwavering resolve of our forces to neutralise threats and restore peace to the region.
Crushing blow: 30 maoists neutralised as security forces disrupt key meeting
On March 20, 2025, a major anti-maoist operation saw the elimination of 30 Maoists, marking a significant triumph against the insurgency. The maoists had covertly gathered in Bijapur district’s remote forests for a critical Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign (TCOC) meeting, only to be surrounded by alert security forces. This led to a fierce gunfight that resulted in 26 maoists being killed in Bijapur. Concurrently, an additional four Maoists were neutralised by a joint team of the Border Security Force and the District Reserve Guard personnel of the state police in Kanker, demonstrating the comprehensive and coordinated efforts to eradicate the red terror.
Major victory: 16 maoists eliminated in Sukma encounter
On March 29, 2025, a decisive blow was dealt to the maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district. At least 16 maoists were killed in a fierce gunfight during a proactive anti-maoist operation. This successful engagement was carried out by a vigilant joint team of the District Reserve Guard and the Central Reserve Police Force, further reinforcing the dominance of our security forces in the region and relentlessly pushing back against those who challenge national sovereignty.
Mass surrender: 50 maoists, including key figures, abandon futile struggle in Bijapur
In a powerful testament to the unrelenting pressure from security forces and the government’s firm stance, 50 maoists, including 10 women, surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district on March 30, 2025. Among those who chose to abandon their path of violence were 14 insurgents who collectively carried a reward of Rs 68 lakh on their heads. These individuals turned themselves in before senior officials of the state police and the Central Reserve Force, signifying a major psychological victory and a significant weakening of the maoist ranks. This mass surrender underscores the effectiveness of our nation’s comprehensive approach to restoring peace and order in previously troubled areas.
Mastermind Basavaraju among 27 maoists eliminated in Narayanpur operation
On May 21, 2025, a monumental victory against the maoist insurgency was achieved in Narayanpur, Chhattisgarh, as the District Reserve Guard executed a precision, intelligence-based operation. This resulted in the elimination of Chief Nambala Keshava Rao, alias Basavaraju, the malevolent mastermind behind countless deadly Maoist attacks, alongside 26 other Maoists.
Basavaraju, aged 70, was a linchpin of the maoist leadership, holding top positions in their politburo, central committee, and central military commission. With bounties totalling over Rs 10 crores announced by the NIA and various state governments, his neutralisation is a crippling blow to their operations. A significant cache of modern weapons and explosives was recovered from the site, with an AK-47 found beside his body, underscoring the severity of the threat he posed. His elimination marks a pivotal moment in the fight against maoist, severing a crucial link between top leaders and ground-level fighters and reaffirming the state’s unwavering resolve to eradicate this menace.
Central Committee member Gautam neutralised in Bijapur encounter
On June 4, 2025, security forces delivered yet another decisive blow to the maoist hierarchy in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district. A maoist central committee member, Gautam alias Sudhakar, was killed in a direct encounter with our brave security personnel. This successful operation, executed by a joint team of the DRG, STF, and elite CoBRA units, was meticulously planned based on actionable intelligence regarding the movements of senior Maoist leaders in the region. This relentless targeting of top leadership underscores our nation’s uncompromising commitment to rooting out extremism and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Reclaiming lives, rebuilding Bastar: The success stories of maoist surrenders
A significant turning point in the fight against Left Wing Extremism has emerged in recent years, as more than 8,000 maoist have laid down their arms and embraced the national mainstream over the past decade. These remarkable surrenders, particularly concentrated in the historically volatile Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, are not merely statistics but represent lives transformed and communities moving towards peace and prosperity.
The “afterlife” for these former maoists is a testament to the government’s comprehensive rehabilitation strategies. Individuals who once waged war against the state are now being reintegrated into society, often finding new purpose through vocational training, economic opportunities, and social acceptance. These success stories from Bastar underscore the effectiveness of a dual approach: sustained security operations that compel surrender, coupled with robust schemes that empower former insurgents to build dignified lives and contribute to the nation’s progress.
From red terror to righteous shield: Ex-maoist Commander Sanjay Potam earns third Gallantry Medal
On January 28, 2025, in Chhattisgarh, the extraordinary journey of Sanjay Potam, once a maoist commander known as Badru, culminated in his third prestigious President’s Medal for Gallantry. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to his exceptional bravery and unwavering dedication to service, marking a complete turnaround from his past.
Potam, who once held responsibility for the Sukma-Dantewada border as a DEC member within the maoist ranks, bravely chose to abandon the path of insurgency. Now an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, his life epitomises the transformative power of rehabilitation and commitment to the nation. “I am grateful that I received this award,” Potam stated, reflecting on his journey from the heart of maoist to becoming a decorated protector of the people. His story is a powerful symbol of how former adversaries can become staunch defenders of law and order.
Madkam Mudraj’s inspiring journey from maoist commander to DRG Inspector
In a compelling narrative of redemption and national service, Madkam Mudraj, once a Maoist commander, has risen to become a respected Inspector in Chhattisgarh’s District Reserve Guard. This incredible transformation, highlighted on May 18, 2022, showcases the success of empowering those who choose to abandon the path of extremism.
Mudraj’s own words powerfully articulate this profound change: “I was a Maoist and would carry a gun. I still carry the weapon, but the difference is it’s not to kill but save people.” His journey from wielding a weapon against the state to using it to protect citizens is nothing short of inspiring. He vividly recalls the fear villagers once harboured towards Maoists, a stark contrast to the present where, he proudly states, “now the Naxals shy away from me.” Madkam’s courageous surrender from his past as a commander in Bastar led to his immediate recruitment as a Special Police Officer, followed by a well-deserved promotion to Inspector within the DRG. His story is a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to reintegrating those who choose peace and empowering them to fight for the very society they once opposed.
Former maoist cadre Joymati Vanjan now serves nation as Chhattisgarh police constable
On December 15, 2024, in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, the compelling story of Joymati Vanjan emerged, highlighting a profound triumph over extremist coercion. Once a cadre of the CPI (Maoist), Vanjan, who was forced into the movement in the 2000s and involved in numerous attacks against our brave security forces, now proudly serves as a Constable in the Chhattisgarh Police.
Her powerful testimony resonates: “I was involved in several attacks on security forces. I did not like it but I was forced into it. Otherwise, I would have become a victim of maoist brutality myself.” This poignant statement underscores the vicious tactics of maoist recruiters and the courage it takes to break free. Joymati Vanjan’s journey is a vivid example of how individuals can escape the clutches of radical ideologies and instead embrace a life of dignity and service to the nation, reinforcing the effectiveness of our state’s unwavering efforts to combat extremism and offer a path to redemption.
From red terror’s grip to peaceful purpose: Soni Markami’s inspiring transformation
In Sukma, Chhattisgarh, on December 15, 2024, the story of Soni Markami stands as a testament to the futility of maoist violence and the profound relief found in returning to the mainstream. Once a part of the CPI (Maoist) since 2002, Markami made the brave decision to surrender in 2016, choosing peace over perpetual conflict.
Now, working as a cook in Malkangiri, her simple yet profound statement encapsulates her liberation: “At least I am happy now.” She unequivocally denounces her past, declaring, “The maoists have no future. Violence is against humanity.” Her journey from a life ensnared by extremist ideology to one of peaceful contribution offers a compelling narrative. Soni Markami’s experience vividly illustrates that the only viable future lies outside the destructive path of maoist, and that national initiatives are successfully guiding misguided individuals back to a life of dignity and happiness, away from the tyranny of the red terror.
From insurgent to protector: Ex-maoist Shankar Markade joins police force, embraces mainstream
On December 15, 2024, in Chhattisgarh, the transformative journey of Shankar Markade marked a significant victory for the state. Once a dreaded maoist from a tribal family in a remote area, Markade abandoned his destructive past, which included involvement in numerous attacks and the alleged destruction of a major corporate plant, and now proudly serves in the police force.
Having given up his studies after Class 8 to join the insurgency, Markade once carried a substantial Rs5 lakh bounty on his head. His powerful statement, “The SP gave me a job. I am now part of the police and feel better as part of the mainstream,” perfectly encapsulates the success of the state’s rehabilitation policy. Shankar Markade’s story is a compelling testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to bringing misguided individuals back into the national fold, demonstrating that the path of peace and service triumphs over violence and rebellion.
Ex-maoist Jaymati Banjam now a valued member of the District Reserve Guard
On December 16, 2024, Chhattisgarh witnessed another inspiring transformation as Jaymati Banjam, a 35-year-old former maoist, officially became a member of the District Reserve Guard. Once carrying a Rs 5 lakh bounty on her head, Jaymati’s disillusionment with the hypocrisy and “double standards of maoist leaders” led her to choose a path of righteousness and service to the nation.
Her decision to surrender met with both an Rs 5 lakh reward and a dignified job, underscores the effectiveness of the state’s comprehensive strategy to combat extremism. Jaymati, who once regrettably participated in attacks on security personnel, now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them, actively defending the very society she once opposed. Her journey is a clear message to all those still caught in the Naxal net: the state offers not just justice, but also a genuine opportunity for redemption and a life of purpose within the mainstream.
The remarkable decline in maoists across Chhattisgarh, particularly in the historically afflicted Bastar region, stands as a resounding testament to the central government’s unyielding resolve and visionary approach. Through a strategic blend of relentless security operations that have decimated leadership and cadres, coupled with a robust rehabilitation policy offering a dignified pathway to the mainstream, the government has fostered an environment where thousands of misguided individuals have chosen to abandon the path of violence. These concerted efforts have not only weakened the maoist menace from within but have also powerfully demonstrated the nation’s unwavering commitment to its citizens. By prioritising both firm action against terror and compassionate reintegration, the government is successfully bringing peace, development, and a renewed sense of national belonging to areas once held captive by extremist ideology, proving that Bharat’s strength lies in its ability to both defend its sovereignty and reclaim its own.
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