Chhattisgarh – Security Forces Clash With Maoists in Bijapur Forest Operation
Chhattisgarh – Security personnel carried out a major operation in the forested stretches of Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh on Thursday, leading to a prolonged gun battle with suspected Maoist fighters. The confrontation unfolded in the southern part of the district, an area that has remained sensitive due to frequent insurgent activity. Officials confirmed that the operation was initiated following credible intelligence about the presence of armed Maoist groups in the region.
Intelligence-Based Operation Sparks Gunfight
According to police sources, joint security teams were deployed after receiving detailed information regarding Maoist movement in the South Bijapur sector. The operation involved members of the District Reserve Guard along with personnel from other specialised units trained for anti-insurgency tasks. The search mission began early in the morning and soon turned into an armed exchange when security teams encountered Maoist cadres.
Prolonged Exchange of Fire in Difficult Terrain
Officials said that the firing began around 7:30 a.m. and continued intermittently for several hours. The dense forest cover and rugged landscape created operational challenges, slowing down movement and requiring additional caution from security forces. Despite these difficulties, teams continued to advance through the terrain while maintaining strategic positions to prevent Maoist escape routes.
Recovery of Weapons and Casualty Confirmation
During the search of the encounter site, authorities recovered the body of one Maoist along with an AK-47 rifle. Security officials stated that additional material evidence was also being examined as part of the ongoing investigation. Local sources suggested that multiple insurgents, including a senior commander and a divisional-level member, might have been killed in the exchange. However, law enforcement officials have not yet confirmed these reports, stating that verification procedures are still underway.
Authorities Await Detailed Operational Report
The Superintendent of Police in Bijapur said that a comprehensive report will be released once the operation fully concludes. He emphasized that final confirmation regarding casualties or recoveries would only be shared after ground teams complete verification and area sanitisation. A significant deployment of security personnel continues in the forest zone to ensure that no hidden insurgent groups remain active in the area.
Intensified Anti-Insurgency Efforts Across Bastar Region
The encounter forms part of broader anti-insurgency efforts currently being carried out across the Bastar division. Over the past several months, security forces have stepped up operations targeting Maoist strongholds through coordinated search missions and intelligence-based action. Officials noted that recent operations have led to several successful outcomes, including the neutralisation of armed cadres and seizure of weapons.
Rehabilitation Programme Encourages Surrenders
In a separate development on the same day, authorities highlighted the continued success of the state government’s rehabilitation initiative known as the Poona Margem: Rehabilitation to Rejuvenation programme. Under this scheme, several Maoist members have reportedly chosen to surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society. The initiative aims to reduce insurgent strength by offering financial assistance, skill development training, and social support to those willing to abandon armed activities.
Dual Strategy of Enforcement and Reintegration
Government officials stated that the combination of firm security action and rehabilitation opportunities is part of a balanced strategy to address left-wing extremism. Authorities believe that providing alternative livelihood options encourages militants to give up violence while allowing security forces to maintain pressure on active insurgent networks. Details regarding individuals who surrendered on Thursday are expected to be released after formal documentation is completed.
Security forces continue to monitor the situation closely, and officials confirmed that operations will remain active until the region is declared secure. Further updates are likely once ground assessments are finalised and teams complete their combing operations in the forested area.