3 Naxals Neutralised In Encounter With Security Forces In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

Bijapur: At least three Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Saturday. According to reports, The encounter broke out in a forest in the Indravati National Park area around 9 am.

The gunfight erupted when a team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation in the area. Security forces recovered the bodies of two Naxals from the spot.

The gun battle is currently underway. A heavy cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered from the slain Naxalites.

As per Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range Sundarraj P, the joint operation is being carried out by the personnel of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) from Bijapur and Dantewada districts, Special Task Force (STF), the 202nd and 210th battalions of CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action — an elite unit of the CRPF).

In 2025, 137 Naxalites have been gunned down in separate encounters in the state so far. Out of the total, 121 were eliminated in the Bastar division. This division comprises seven districts, including Bijapur.

Amit Shah's Latest Statement On Naxalism:

Earlier this month, Union Home Minister Amit Shah retrietated his commitment over making Bastar Naxal free by coming Chaitra Navratra. Shah, while speaking at the closing ceremony of Bastar Pandum, made a heartfelt appeal to Naxalites and members of their associated organizations to lay down their arms and become part of the mainstream. He emphasized that they could actively contribute to the ongoing development efforts in Bastar, which hold the promise of a better and peaceful future for all.

He also reached out to the local villagers, encouraging them to support this movement toward peace. He announced that any village declared 'Naxal-free' would be awarded Rs one crore for development projects.

Published on: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 01:08 PM IST