Chhattisgarh's Major Anti-Naxal Victory: 16 Neutralized, Weapons Seized

In a major operation in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, security forces neutralized 16 Naxalites and recovered a substantial cache of automatic weapons. Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating Naxalism by March 2026. The joint operation was one of the largest in Sukma to date.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised security forces for their success in a significant anti-Naxal operation in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, where 16 Naxalites were neutralized and a considerable cache of automatic weapons seized. Shah termed the operation a decisive blow to Naxalism and reiterated the Narendra Modi government's goal to eradicate the issue by March 31, 2026.

Shah took to social media to announce, "Another strike on Naxalism! Our security agencies have neutralized 16 Naxalites and recovered a massive cache of automatic weapons in Sukma. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, we aim to eradicate Naxalism before March 31, 2026." He appealed to those still engaged in armed rebellion, stressing that weapons and violence cannot bring change, but peace and development can.

The encounter involved joint teams of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan confirmed the recovery of 16 Naxal bodies, noting that two security personnel were injured and are receiving medical attention. Officials described it as one of the biggest encounters in Sukma, highlighting the seizure of sophisticated weapons including AK-47s, SLRs, and INSAS rifles.

The operation was based on intelligence about Naxal presence in the Kerlapal area. The joint team initiated the mission on March 28, with fighting continuing into the following morning. Security forces are combing the encounter site and surrounding forests. Sukma, in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, is a noted Naxal hotspot, having endured numerous attacks in the past.

Previously, on March 22, Shah informed Parliament about the government's pledge to eliminate Naxalism by March 31, 2026, citing a dramatic decrease in violent incidents and casualties over the last decade. From 2004 to 2014, there were 16,463 violent incidents with 1,851 security personnel martyred. In contrast, the past decade saw a 53% reduction in incidents, a 73% drop in security personnel casualties, and a 70% decrease in civilian deaths.

Between 2014 and 2024, 11,503 kilometers of highways and 20,000 kilometers of rural roads have been constructed in Naxal-affected areas. Mobile connectivity is being enhanced with thousands of towers already installed, and full coverage expected by December 1st, further demonstrating the government's developmental approach alongside security efforts. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)