Massive Encounter in Chhattisgarh Leaves 29 Maoists Dead Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections
Kankar, April 16,2024
In a dramatic turn of events, a massive encounter unfolded in the Bastar area of Chhattisgarh, resulting in the death of 29 Maoists. The skirmish occurred in the Mad area under the Chote Bitia police station in Kanker district, adding another chapter to the region’s history of insurgency and counterinsurgency efforts.
The security forces, comprising personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF) and District Reserve Guard (DRG), had intensified combing operations in the dense forests of Kanker district. This heightened vigilance followed credible intelligence indicating an imminent attack by Maoist insurgents.
Despite the proactive measures, the Maoists, renowned for their guerilla tactics, managed to mount a surprise assault upon detecting the presence of security forces in the region. The ensuing clash, characterized by intense gunfire, lasted from 12:30 pm to 2 pm, culminating in the deaths of 29 Maoists at the scene.
Among the deceased, several prominent Maoist leaders, including Commander Shankar Rao, Lalita, and Sujata of the Telangana cadre, are suspected to have been eliminated. Notably, Commander Shankar Rao hailed from Nalgonda district, underscoring the wide-reaching impact of the encounter.
Tragically, a BSF inspector and two DRG jawans sustained severe injuries during the exchange of fire. Swift evacuation via helicopter facilitated their transfer to Raipur for urgent medical treatment, where they are currently reported to be in stable condition.
The encounter yielded a significant haul of weaponry, with security forces seizing five AK-47 rifles, 303 rifles, INSAS rifles, and rocket launchers from the encounter site. Additionally, the recovery of mines, essential materials, and revolutionary literature underscores the Maoists’ operational capabilities and ideological fervor.
In response to the incident, Bastar Inspector General Sundar Raj and Kanker Superintendent of Police Indrakalyan swiftly dispatched backup battalions to bolster the forces engaged in combing operations. Comprehensive details are anticipated upon the return of these reinforcements.
The Union Home Ministry’s decision to issue a red alert for five states—Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Maharashtra—reflects the gravity of the Maoist threat during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This move underscores the imperative for heightened security measures and vigilance across affected regions.
As Chhattisgarh braces for the polling phase of the Lok Sabha elections, the encounter serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by Maoist insurgency in the region. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of both security personnel and civilians amidst the backdrop of electoral proceedings.
