14 Naxals Killed in Chhattisgarh Police Encounter, Including 1 Crore Bounty-Hit Leader
In a major success for the Chhattisgarh police, 14 Naxals were killed during an encounter near the Chhattisgarh-Odisha border. Among the casualties was a notorious Naxal leader with a bounty of 1 crore rupees on his head. This encounter marks a significant step in the state’s ongoing fight against Naxal insurgency.
The police have confirmed that the encounter is still in progress, and more updates are expected as the operation unfolds.
Government’s Response: Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Arun Sao, praised the efforts of the security forces and highlighted the Union Home Minister’s goal to eliminate Naxalism across the nation by March 31, 2026. Sao acknowledged the bravery of the forces, stressing that the fight against Naxalism is crucial for the state’s development.
Ongoing Security Challenges: Despite the victory, Naxal threats remain a significant challenge. On January 17, 2025, an IED attack injured two Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in Narayanpur district. The blast occurred while the BSF was conducting a road-opening operation between Camp Garpa and Garpa village.
Additionally, on January 16, 2025, two CRPF jawans were injured in another IED blast near Putkel village, under the jurisdiction of Basaguda police station in Bijapur district.
Key Takeaways:
- 14 Naxals killed in an encounter with Chhattisgarh police near the Odisha border.
- 1 crore bounty-hit Naxal leader among the casualties.
- Union Home Minister aims to make India Naxal-free by March 31, 2026.
- Ongoing IED attacks targeting security forces in Chhattisgarh.
This encounter marks a pivotal moment in Chhattisgarh’s battle against Naxal violence, as the state’s authorities and security forces continue to face significant threats. The government’s commitment to eradicating Naxalism is evident, but the struggle is far from over.
