A significant operation against Maoist insurgents in the Karregutta hills near the Chhattisgarh border has resulted in the deaths of 26 Maoists, including four women, as part of the largest anti-left-wing extremist operation undertaken this year. Official sources confirmed the success of the ongoing offensive, which began on April 21 in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, and has since crossed into Telangana.
The operation, spearheaded by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), involves a force of around 20,000 troops and includes units of the Chhattisgarh Police. As part of the mission, security forces have also seized a substantial amount of explosives, weapon-making factories, and other materials used by the Maoists for their operations.
While the operation has led to significant successes on the ground, it has come at a cost. Over a dozen troops have sustained injuries, including officers from the CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) of the CRPF, as well as members of the Chhattisgarh Police’s District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Special Task Force (STF). Notably, Assistant Commandant Sagar Borade from CoBRA lost a leg in an IED blast two days ago, and another commando was severely injured in a similar incident on Wednesday.
The importance of the operation is underscored by the high-level oversight and coordination involved. CRPF Director General G P Singh has been personally monitoring the operation, frequently visiting Raipur, Jagdalpur, and the operation zone since April 19. The daily meetings between CRPF and state police heads ensure constant monitoring, troop rotation, and resupply of necessary provisions such as food, water, and ammunition.
The Karregutta hills, considered previously untapped by security forces, have been a stronghold for Maoists. Despite the challenging conditions, including a heavily mined area and extreme weather, no security forces casualties have been reported, highlighting the strength and resilience of the coordinated efforts. According to officials, the operation is aimed at neutralizing or apprehending the remaining Maoist elements in the region, and coordination between the CRPF and Chhattisgarh Police has been pivotal to the operation’s success.
