In a significant counter-insurgency success, 10 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district on Sunday. The incident highlights the intensifying efforts of security agencies to curb left-wing extremism in the Bastar region, one of India’s most affected zones.
How the Encounter in Gariaband Unfolded
According to police officials, a joint operation was launched based on intelligence inputs about Naxal presence in the Nuapada-Gariaband forest region, which lies along the Chhattisgarh–Odisha border. As forces advanced, they came under heavy fire from a group of armed Naxals.
The ensuing gun battle lasted several hours, during which security personnel retaliated strongly. By the end of the operation, 10 Naxals were neutralized, and a large cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives was recovered.
Security Forces Involved in the Operation
The encounter was carried out jointly by:
- District Reserve Guard (DRG)
- Special Task Force (STF)
- Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
- Local police units
Officials confirmed that the encounter site has been sealed, and a combing operation is underway to flush out remaining insurgents.
Major Blow to Naxal Network in Chhattisgarh
Authorities have described this as a major setback for Naxals in Gariaband, as the group killed is believed to have included key cadres involved in past attacks on security forces. This comes amid a series of intensified anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh ahead of the festive season, aimed at dismantling their hideouts and weakening their stronghold.
Arms and Ammunition Recovered
Security personnel recovered:
- Assault rifles
- Improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
- Country-made weapons
- Communication equipment
- Propaganda materials
This seizure underscores the Naxals’ continued ability to wage violent attacks and the need for constant vigilance in the region.
Official Reactions
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister congratulated security forces, calling the encounter a “major success in restoring peace in Bastar and surrounding areas.” He reiterated the government’s commitment to development alongside strong security measures in Maoist-affected districts.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also praised the forces, stating that the Centre remains dedicated to eradicating the “menace of Naxalism” through a combination of force, development, and rehabilitation initiatives.
Naxal Insurgency: The Bigger Picture
Chhattisgarh remains the epicenter of Naxal violence, although official data shows a decline in attacks over the last decade due to continuous security operations. However, regions like Sukma, Bijapur, Dantewada, and now Gariaband still witness sporadic but deadly encounters.
Experts note that the Gariaband encounter once again highlights the dual challenge of insurgency and underdevelopment, with local tribal populations often caught in the crossfire.
What Next in Gariaband?
Security forces are continuing search operations to ensure that no armed cadres escape into adjoining forest belts. Officials confirmed that DNA testing will be carried out to identify the slain Naxals, many of whom are suspected to have bounties on their heads.
The government has urged locals to cooperate with authorities and assured that developmental schemes, road connectivity, and livelihood programs will be accelerated in Gariaband to prevent insurgent re-emergence.