Three Naxalites, collectively carrying a bounty of Rs 15 lakh, were neutralized by security forces in a significant encounter in Sukma, Chhattisgarh. The operation unfolded on Sunday morning in the forested terrain of Tumalpad village, located within the jurisdiction of the Bhejji and Chintagufa police stations. The security forces had been alerted to the presence of Maoist elements and consequently launched a targeted operation.
The deceased Naxalites have been identified as key operatives: Madvi Deva, an area committee member; Podiam Gangi, who served as the commander of the Chetna Natya Mandli (CNM); and Sodhi Gangi, another area committee member from Kistaram. An intense exchange of fire erupted between the Naxalites and the security personnel during the operation.
After a protracted gun battle, the search teams successfully recovered the bodies of the three Naxalites, including two women. Authorities also recovered a substantial cache of arms and explosives from the encounter site. This includes advanced weaponry such as Barrel Grenade Launchers (BGLs), VGA launchers, a 303 rifle, and considerable ammunition.
Further search operations are actively ongoing in the region. This development underscores the effectiveness of the security forces’ strategy in combating Naxalism. The Bastar region has seen a high number of Naxalite neutralizations this year, totaling 233, encompassing various levels of leadership within Maoist organizations. The national goal to eliminate Naxalism by early next year continues to drive these efforts.