26 Naxalites Killed in Major Anti-Maoist Operation in Chhattisgarh

Raipur, May 21 — At least 26 Naxalites have been killed and several others injured in an ongoing anti-Maoist operation in the hilly and forested areas of Abujhmad in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district, according to security sources.

The large-scale operation, which began earlier this week, involves coordinated efforts by multiple units of the state’s security forces. Teams from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of Narayanpur, Dantewada, Bijapur, Kondagaon, and Kanker districts are actively participating. They are being supported by elite CoBRA commandos and personnel from the Special Task Force (STF).

Sources revealed that several top Naxalite commanders, including figures known as Rupesh and Vikalp—both under surveillance for some time—are believed to have been surrounded by the security forces in the ongoing encounter.

Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed the operation’s progress and said it was based on credible intelligence inputs. “The objective is to clear areas that have long served as Naxalite strongholds and to establish a permanent security presence,” he stated. Sharma added, “The operation has been successful so far, and efforts are continuing.”

The combing operations are focused on clearing dense forest areas in Abujhmad, which have historically provided safe haven for Maoist leadership and armed cadres. Recovery of arms, ammunition, and Maoist literature from the encounter site indicates the scale of the Naxalite network operating in the region.

Despite the success, the operation has not been without loss. One jawan was martyred, and another sustained injuries during the exchange of fire. Security forces have expressed resolve to continue the mission and pay tribute to the fallen personnel by completing the operation effectively.

This offensive marks one of the most significant anti-Naxalite operations in the region in recent months and is seen as a strong statement of the state government’s intent to dismantle the extremist infrastructure and restore peace in affected areas.

The operation remains ongoing, with forces maintaining high alert across the affected zone to prevent any potential escape or regrouping by the militants.