A fierce encounter between security forces and Naxalites erupted in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district on Tuesday, resulting in the death of at least 29 insurgents, including prominent Naxal leader Shankar Rao.
The gun battle took place in the Hapatola forest between Binagunda and Koronar villages, under the jurisdiction of the Chhotebethiya police station. The state police confirmed that Rao, who had a reward of Rs 25 lakh on his head, was among those killed in the operation.
The joint operation, led by the Border Security Force (BSF) and the state police’s District Reserve Guard (DRG), witnessed intense clashes between the security personnel and the Naxalites.
Three security personnel sustained injuries during the encounter, but they are reported to be out of danger. The injured personnel are being shifted to a hospital for further treatment, according to the Chhattisgarh police.
The security forces managed to recover a significant cache of weapons from the encounter site, including seven AK series rifles and three Light Machine Guns (LMGs). The BSF, which has been extensively deployed in Kanker district for counter-insurgency operations, described the operation as one of the biggest anti-Naxal missions in the area.
Bastar Inspector General of Police (IG) P Sunddaraj emphasized that all the Naxalites killed in the operation belonged to the north Bastar division. The operation was launched based on intelligence indicating the presence of senior Naxal figures, including Shankar, Lalita, and Raju, in the targeted area.
The successful operation marks a significant blow to the Naxal insurgency in the region, according to law enforcement authorities.
The encounter underscores the ongoing efforts of the security forces to combat Naxalism in Chhattisgarh, where the insurgency has posed a longstanding challenge to the state’s security apparatus.
The operation reflects the determination of the authorities to neutralize Naxal threats and restore peace and stability in the affected regions.
The state government has lauded the bravery and dedication of the security forces involved in the operation. Chief Minister [Name] expressed condolences to the families of the security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating Naxalism from the state and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Comments