Chhattisgarh: Security forces neutralize 29 Maoists in encounter, days ahead of Lok Sabha elections

A fierce encounter erupted between Maoists and security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district, resulting in the death of 29 Maoists and leaving three security personnel injured. This incident has unfolded just days before the Lok Sabha polls scheduled in Bastar on April 19.

Bastar’s Inspector General, Sundarraj P., revealed that more than 60,000 security personnel have been deployed in the district to maintain law and order ahead of the elections.

Details of the encounter

According to a BSF spokesperson, the joint operation by teams of BSF and DRG was launched based on specific intelligence on April 16. The encounter ensued when the BSF troops came under fire from CPI Maoist cadres during the operation. One BSF personnel sustained a bullet injury but is now safe after evacuation.

The ongoing operation has resulted in the neutralization of 18 CPI Maoist cadres, with their bodies recovered from the site of the encounter. Security forces have also initiated search operations in the area.

Recovery of arms in encounter

Preliminary reports indicate that the encounter took place under the jurisdiction of Chotebetiya police station. Security forces have recovered seven AK series rifles and three Light Machine Guns from the encounter site. Additionally, three security personnel sustained injuries during the operation but are reported to be out of danger.

Past incidents 

In a similar incident last year, during the state assembly polls, a BSF jawan escorting a polling party was injured in an IED blast in the jurisdiction of Chotebetiya police station. Home Minister Amit Shah, during a recent visit to Khairagarh in Chhattisgarh, urged people to vote for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, promising to eradicate Naxalism in the next three years.

Security forces have intensified their anti-Naxal operations in 2024, with 50 Maoists neutralized so far this year. However, Maoist violence has claimed the lives of 18 civilians and six security personnel.