High-Profile Naxal Arrested Amid Gunfire in Madhya Pradesh Forest

A 32-year-old female Naxal with a Rs 14 Lakh bounty was arrested by Hawk force in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh. The operation faced resistance from other Naxals but ended successfully. The arrested woman, Sajanti, revealed insights into Naxal operations, highlighting the state’s surrender policy.

A 32-year-old female Naxal with a Rs 14 Lakh reward on her head was arrested in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat district, police reported on Friday. The arrest occurred in the forest of Parsatola under Baihar police station's jurisdiction on Thursday night, executed by a team from Hawk force.

The Naxal, identified as Sajanti from Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, was apprehended in possession of a pistol, bullet magazine, and an axe. Balaghat Superintendent of Police (SP) Nagendra Singh stated, "We received intelligence regarding Naxal movements seeking rations in the Parsatola forest area. The Hawk force team was dispatched and encountered two Naxals. While attempting to stop them, one was captured, and the other fled."

The operation faced resistance as other Naxal members attempted to free Sajanti by opening fire. However, Hawk force's retaliation forced the fleeing Naxals to retreat into the dense forest. SP Singh noted that Sajanti's husband was killed in a previous encounter. He also urged other Naxals wishing to surrender to take advantage of Madhya Pradesh's beneficial surrender policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)