Bijapur, Chhattisgarh – In a major escalation of anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh, security forces have eliminated seven Naxal insurgents over the past three days in the dense forests of the National Park region in Bijapur district. The ongoing encounter, which began on June 5, continues to see fierce resistance from Naxal cadres even as the security forces maintain pressure.
According to Bastar IG Sundarraj P., the encounter has so far resulted in the recovery of seven Naxal bodies, including that of two top leaders — Central Committee member Gautam alias Sudhakar and Telangana State Committee member Bhaskar alias Maylarapu Adelu. Along with the bodies, forces recovered a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives, including two AK-47 rifles.
Top Leaders Among the Dead
The operation began on June 5, when forces gunned down Gautam alias Sudhakar, a central committee leader carrying a bounty of ₹1 crore on his head. The next day, Bhaskar, who had a reward of ₹45 lakh, was killed during a follow-up encounter. On June 7, five more Naxals were neutralized. Efforts are currently underway to identify these deceased insurgents.
Authorities say that the ongoing operation is part of a larger crackdown on Naxal activities in the Bastar region, with a focus on flushing out top leadership and dismantling logistical networks. A consolidated report on the seized arms and materials is expected to be released shortly.
Jungle Hazards: Snake Bites, Bee Stings, and Dehydration
Despite operational success, the forces have not been spared nature’s wrath. Several personnel have sustained injuries not from enemy fire, but from environmental hazards including snake bites, bee stings, and dehydration caused by intense heat and rugged terrain. Medical teams have been deployed to support affected personnel.
The terrain of Bijapur’s National Park area, known for its thick forest cover and hostile ecosystem, has posed serious challenges to the troops. However, the search continues across adjoining forest zones as security personnel attempt to locate and neutralize remaining Naxal hideouts.
Chhattisgarh’s Persistent Naxal Challenge
The recent encounters reaffirm the ongoing threat posed by Naxalism in parts of central India, even as the state and central governments claim significant progress in curbing left-wing extremism. The elimination of high-ranking leaders like Sudhakar and Bhaskar is being viewed as a strategic blow to Naxal operations in the region.
Security experts note that the sustained pressure by special forces in areas like Sukma, Dantewada, and Bijapur may significantly weaken the operational strength of insurgents, especially when backed by intelligence-led operations and increased surveillance.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to continuing operations and improving conditions for personnel on the ground, emphasizing both security dominance and development outreach in affected areas.
