Raipur, India – In a major operation against the ongoing insurgency, Indian security forces eliminated 31 Maoist rebels on Sunday, marking one of the most intense confrontations since the government intensified efforts to suppress the movement.
During the battle, two Indian commandos lost their lives, while two others sustained injuries, according to police reports.
Decades-Long Insurgency
The Maoist insurgency, which has claimed over 10,000 lives, has been active for decades. The rebels, fighting in India’s resource-rich central regions, claim to represent the rights of marginalized communities.
Operation Details
Senior police officer Sundarraj P. confirmed the recovery of 31 rebel bodies and stated that reinforcements had been dispatched to the area. The death toll may rise as security forces continue search operations.
Security personnel also seized assault rifles and grenade launchers from the slain insurgents.
The clash occurred in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, a region considered the stronghold of Maoist activity.
Government’s Crackdown on Maoist Insurgency
The rebels, known as Naxalites, trace their origins back to 1967, drawing ideological inspiration from Mao Zedong.
India’s Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the operation as a major step toward a “Naxal-free India.” He reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating Maoist insurgency by 2026.
According to government data, security operations eliminated 287 rebels in 2023, with over 80 Maoists killed this year alone, as per the latest reports.
This operation underscores the government’s determination to crush the insurgency and restore peace in conflict-hit regions.
