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The Indian state of Chhattisgarh has been grappling with a decades-long Naxalite insurgency, a complex conflict with deep roots in socio-economic inequalities and political grievances. In a significant development, a 48-hour operation by security forces in the state has resulted in the elimination of 31 Naxalites, marking one of the most successful counter-insurgency operations in Chhattisgarh's history. The operation, which took place in the dense forests bordering Narayanpur and Dantewada districts, involved approximately 1,500 personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), the Special Task Force (STF), and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
The encounter, which began on October 3rd, unfolded over a challenging terrain. Security personnel traversed a 10-kilometer motorcycle ride through fields and dirt tracks followed by a 12-kilometer climb of a hilly region. This demanding landscape serves as a testament to the arduous conditions faced by security forces engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Chhattisgarh. The operation was strategically planned based on intelligence reports that indicated the presence of Maoist cadres belonging to Company No. 6 and the East Bastar division of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in the Gavadi, Thulthuli, Nendur, and Rengawaya village areas.
The gunfight between security forces and Naxalites erupted around 1 pm on October 4th, culminating in a fierce confrontation that lasted until late evening. The clash occurred in a forested area between Nendur and Thulthuli villages. The initial count revealed 28 bodies of Naxalites recovered from the encounter site, while three additional bodies were discovered the following day, bringing the total number of casualties to 31. The deceased Naxalites were reportedly dressed in uniforms. The identification of the slain individuals is still underway, but initial indications suggest their affiliation with the PLGA Company No. 6, Platoon 16, and the East Bastar division of the Maoists.
The operation was met with praise from Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who hailed the security forces for their success. He emphasized the ‘double engine’ government's commitment to eradicating the Naxal menace. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by the Indian government to combat Naxalite insurgency in Chhattisgarh and other affected regions. While this encounter represents a significant blow to the Maoist forces, the Naxalite insurgency remains a complex challenge that necessitates a multi-pronged approach involving development, rehabilitation, and targeted counter-insurgency operations to effectively address the root causes of the conflict and pave the way for sustainable peace in the region.
Source: Chhattisgarh: 1,500 security personnel behind 48-hour operation that eliminated 31 Naxalities