Major Blow to Naxalism: 18 Maoists Neutralized in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh witnessed a major success in its anti-Naxal operations as security forces eliminated 18 Maoists in a significant encounter in the Bijapur district. The operation, launched in the forest areas bordering Bijapur and Dantewada, resulted in a heavy crackdown on insurgent activities. The official count of neutralized Naxalites reached 18, with authorities confirming the recovery of six additional bodies after initial reports. The slain included Modiyam Vella, a high-ranking PLGA commander wanted for his role in several deadly attacks, including the 2020 Minpa ambush which claimed 17 security personnel. Vella, who had an Rs 8 lakh reward on his head, was found with a substantial cache of weapons, including AK-47 and INSAS rifles. The encounter was not without its cost; three dedicated members of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) were martyred, and two more sustained injuries. So far this year, Chhattisgarh has seen 275 Naxalites neutralized by security forces, contrasting with the 23 security personnel casualties.