Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating Naxalism, following the killing of 22 Naxalites in two separate encounters in Chhattisgarh. He emphasized that security forces are making significant strides towards a Naxal Mukt Bharat (Naxal-Free India) and reaffirmed that the government will not tolerate insurgency.
Major Security Operation in Bijapur and Kanker
The large-scale anti-Naxal operation was conducted by a joint team of the Border Security Force (BSF) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) in two districts of Chhattisgarh—Bijapur and Kanker. According to security officials, 18 Naxalites were eliminated in Bijapur, while four were neutralized in Kanker.
The Bijapur encounter took place in the early hours near the border of Bijapur and Dantewada districts. Security forces launched an offensive in the Gangaloor police station area, leading to an intense gunfight. Following the operation, authorities recovered 18 bodies along with firearms and explosives. Unfortunately, a DRG jawan lost his life in the encounter.
Meanwhile, in Kanker, four Maoists were eliminated near Koroskodo village in the Chhotebethiya police station area. The operation, carried out along the Kanker-Narayanpur border, is still ongoing, with security forces recovering automatic weapons from the site. Officials have reported intermittent gunfire as personnel continue combing operations in the region.
Government’s Firm Stand Against Naxalism
Amit Shah emphasized that the Modi government is taking a “ruthless approach” against Naxal insurgents who refuse to surrender despite being given opportunities for reintegration. He further stated that India will be completely free of Naxalism before March 31, 2026.
Recent Counter-Insurgency Successes
The recent encounter follows a series of counter-insurgency measures in the region. Just last week, 17 Naxalites surrendered in Bijapur district, and in February, security forces arrested 18 Maoists while recovering explosives in three separate operations. These actions reflect the government’s intensified crackdown on left-wing extremism.
Chhattisgarh CM Praises Security Forces
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the security forces for their successful operation. He expressed confidence in the Union Home Minister’s resolve to eliminate Naxalism, stating, “After two separate operations, bodies of 22 Naxalites have been found in Kanker and Bijapur. We appreciate the efforts of our security forces. The Union Home Minister has vowed to end Naxalism by March 31, 2026, and we are confident that his commitment will be fulfilled.”
With the government’s aggressive counter-insurgency measures and increasing pressure on Maoist groups, the fight against Naxalism is intensifying, bringing India closer to achieving a Naxal Mukt Bharat.
