Chhattisgarh Security Forces Eliminate 30 Maoists In Major Operations

Security Forces Kill 30 Maoists in Chhattisgarh Crackdown

In a significant operation against Maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh, security forces killed thirty Maoists in two separate encounters on March 20, 2025, marking a decisive blow to the ongoing Naxalite movement in the region. The encounters took place in the Bastar district, specifically along the border areas of Bijapur-Dantewada and Kanker-Narayanpur.

The first encounter began around 7:00 AM in the Gangalur area of Bijapur, following intelligence reports indicating a substantial gathering of Maoists. As security personnel moved in, heavy firing erupted between the two sides, resulting in the recovery of twenty-six Maoist bodies alongside a significant cache of weapons and ammunition. Tragically, this operation cost the life of a District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan, Raju Oyam, who had previously been associated with Maoist organizations before joining the mainstream in 2020. The death of Oyam has been mourned as a grave loss for the security forces.

In the second encounter, which took place near the Kanker-Narayanpur border, an additional four Maoists were killed. Reports indicate that automatic weapons were recovered from both encounter sites, underscoring the intensity of the firefights.

Chhattisgarh's Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma provided insights into the operation, revealing that the militants were engaged in a tactical meeting at the time of the attack. Such gatherings are believed to be part of their Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign (TCOC), typically observed between March and June, intended to coordinate their activities and strategies against security forces.

Sharma lauded the swift action of the security forces, stating, "Naxalites had gathered in remote jungles for a meeting considering their Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign. Our forces successfully surrounded the Naxals, and they opened fire on us, which prompted a retaliatory response. This operation stands as a major achievement against the Naxal threat in our state."

The overarching strategy against Naxalism, termed the 'Naxal Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,' aims to eradicate this insurgency by March 31, 2026. Union Home Minister Amit Shah commended the efforts of the security forces, declaring that these latest operations are a substantive step towards achieving a Naxal-free India.

Moreover, in a separate incident on March 21, police in Gariaband district recovered ₹8 lakh in cash, reportedly hidden by Maoists in a subterranean hideout. This operation was led by DSP Garima Dadar, with assistance from various police units including the STF and CRPF. Explosive materials, Naxalite literature, and a diary were also discovered in the hidden tunnel.

SP Nikhil Rakhecha explained, "The action was taken based on a tip-off. Upon conducting a search operation in the hilly area of Pandripani in Mainpur, we uncovered the hidden belongings of the Naxalites, revealing their extensive operational networks and financial resources." The police are now tracing the origins of the ₹8 lakh and have lodged an FIR at the Mainpur police station, indicating that those involved in financing or supporting Naxalite activities will face stringent action under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

This recent series of encounters reflects the concerted campaign by security forces in Chhattisgarh to dismantle Naxalite strongholds and re-establish state authority in affected areas. With the identity of many of the slain Maoists already confirmed, including 14 women and 12 men, it gauges both the operational scale and gender inclusivity of individuals involved in the insurgency.

Security operations in conflict-prone regions are complex and fraught with risk, but the latest developments underscore the Indian government’s commitment to combating extremism. As the security forces work tirelessly to restore peace and security to Chhattisgarh, the impact of these operations extends beyond just the immediate casualties. They serve to deter further Naxalite activity and reassure local populations of the state’s resolve to safeguard their communities.

As the campaign against Naxalism presses forward, continued vigilance and strategic operations will be paramount to ensure the stability and safety of the region.