Security Forces Neutralise Over 14 Maoists in Major Encounters in South Bastar

Raipur/Sukma/Bijapur, Jan 2026 : In one of the largest anti-Maoist operations this year, security forces have neutralised more than 14 Maoists in two separate fierce encounters in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma and Bijapur districts, located in the South Bastar region.

The first intense gunbattle occurred in the densely forested Kistaram area of Sukma, where joint teams of security personnel were conducting a targeted search operation based on credible intelligence. The forces came under heavy fire from the Maoists, leading to several hours of sustained exchange.

Initial reports from Sukma and Bijapur police suggest that most of the neutralised Maoists belonged to the Darbha Valley Committee (DVCM) cadre, one of the key Maoist formations in the region. Among those eliminated was a Naxal commander allegedly involved in the killing of Additional SP Akash Girpunje of Konta, marking a significant setback for the insurgent outfit.

Weapons recovered from the encounters include an AK-47, an INSAS rifle, ammunition, and explosives. Security teams are continuing to comb the area, and the exact casualty count and identities of the Maoists will be confirmed once forces return from the deep forest zones.

Officials have refrained from disclosing operational specifics, including the exact locations of the gunbattles and the number of personnel deployed, citing the ongoing and highly sensitive nature of the operation. A senior police officer told reporters, “The operation has reached a critical stage and is still underway. For the safety of our jawans, we cannot share further details at this time.”

Authorities have assured that a comprehensive update—including the identities of the neutralised Maoists, details of seized weapons, and the overall outcome—will be released once the mission is fully completed and the area declared secure.

The Maoist insurgency in the region has declined significantly over recent years due to sustained counter-insurgency operations, development initiatives, and the surrender of several cadres. The number of affected districts has reduced to fewer than 20, primarily in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

The government has set an ambitious goal of eliminating Left-Wing Extremism by March 31, using a combination of security camps, infrastructure development, and welfare schemes. While the Maoist structure has been weakened, longstanding issues such as tribal displacement and socio-economic inequality remain, highlighting the need for sustained development efforts alongside security measures.

Team Maverick.