A massive anti-Naxal operation launched in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh has entered its eighth day, with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reaffirming his government’s commitment to eliminating Naxalism to ensure a safer and more prosperous future for the state.
While chairing a high-level review meeting in Raipur, CM Sai described the ongoing campaign not just as a mission, but as a defining step toward a Naxal-free Chhattisgarh. He emphasized that the drive, backed by the Union Home Ministry, is part of a broader strategy to restore peace and promote development in tribal and conflict-affected areas.
Over 24,000 Security Personnel Deployed in Tough Terrain
The operation—one of the largest counter-insurgency missions in Indian history—has mobilized more than 24,000 security forces. Personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Bastar Fighters, Special Task Force (STF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and its elite CoBRA units are actively engaged across the hilly and forested terrain of Karregutta and Durgamgutta—an area spanning 800 square kilometers on the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border.
Backed by helicopters and drone surveillance, the mission was launched on April 21, focusing on regions considered strategic hideouts for the Maoists’ most dangerous battalion—the PLGA Battalion No. 1.
Top Maoist Leaders Believed to Be Present in Region
According to senior security officials, intelligence reports suggest that over 500 armed Maoists, including top commanders such as Hidma, Barse Deva, and Damodar, are believed to be holed up in the region. These members reportedly belong to the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), Telangana State Committee (TSC), and the Central Regional Committee (CRC).
Officials revealed that Maoist forces were using this terrain as a base to plan attacks on both civilians and security personnel. Some areas had been rigged with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), posing a major threat to villagers.
Casualties and Clashes: Ground Update
Since the beginning of the operation:
- Three women Maoists have been neutralized in an encounter on the Karregutta hills.
- A large stockpile of weapons, explosives, and supplies has been seized.
- Two security personnel suffered minor injuries in separate IED blasts.
- Several soldiers were treated for dehydration and heatstroke due to the region’s intense heat and rough terrain.
Despite these challenges, officials say troop morale remains high, and forces are determined to continue until the region is fully cleared.
Chhattisgarh’s Commitment to a Naxal-Free State
CM Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that the goal is not just military victory, but the complete eradication of extremist ideology. He stated, “Naxal elimination is crucial to securing the future of Bastar and Chhattisgarh. This is a mission, not just a campaign.”
He urged security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and strengthen inter-agency coordination to ensure lasting results.
Joining the meeting were Deputy CM Vijay Sharma, Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, and DGP Arun Dev Gautam, along with senior home and police officials.
Operation Prahar: Long-Term Strategy to End Naxalism by 2026
The operation is a key part of “Operation Prahar”, India’s nationwide counter-Naxal strategy aimed at completely eradicating left-wing extremism by 2026. This includes sustained action in hotbed zones such as Bijapur and Dantewada.
Since the BJP returned to power in 2023, anti-Naxal operations have intensified significantly. Over the past year:
- More than 350 Naxalites have been eliminated.
- 144 Maoists, including 128 in Bastar, have been killed this year alone.
- A major strike on March 29 resulted in the death of 18 Naxals, including 11 women combatants.
