Security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district have intensified a massive anti-Maoist operation, resulting in the death of three high-ranking Maoist cadres, including two women, who were identified as members of the elite People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion Number 01 — one of the most feared combat units of the banned CPI (Maoist) group.
The encounter occurred on April 24 in the Koraguttam hill area, and the deceased have been identified as Hungi, Sintu, and Shanti, all of whom were carrying a bounty of ₹8 lakh each. According to police officials, the trio was involved in multiple past attacks targeting both security personnel and civilians.
“These high-value Maoist operatives were believed to be responsible for several violent incidents in the region. Their elimination is a significant blow to the CPI (Maoist)’s operational capabilities,” said a senior police officer in a statement.
The bodies have been taken to Bijapur for post-mortem and are currently in the mortuary, awaiting identification and formal handover to their families. All legal formalities have been completed, according to the authorities.
Ninth Day of Operation: Over 10,000 Troops Deployed
This action is part of a major anti-insurgency combing operation now in its ninth day, which involves more than 10,000 security personnel. The joint forces include the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Bastar Fighters, and the Special Task Force (STF). Their objective is to eliminate or capture top Maoist leaders, including Deva, Hidma, and Damodar, believed to be operating in the 145 sq km forested region near Karreguttalu.
“The terrain is extremely difficult, but we have cornered them in the hills. We estimate over 400 Maoist cadres may be trapped,” a senior officer told reporters.
Advanced Surveillance and Tactical Camps
Security personnel are using drones and helicopters to monitor Maoist movements and have established at least seven tactical base camps in the region to maintain logistical support and coordination during the extended operation.
Karreguttalu and its surrounding forests have long been a stronghold for Maoists, particularly for Battalion Number 01, the group’s most lethal armed unit. The Maoists’ Battalion Number 02, which was earlier active in the Abujhmad region, has reportedly been dissolved, consolidating the militant strength within Battalion 01.
A senior Chhattisgarh police official noted that support from the Telangana and Maharashtra police has been crucial in sealing escape routes and reinforcing the cordon around the Maoist stronghold.
High Stakes in the Fight Against Left-Wing Extremism
The current operation marks one of the largest security mobilisations in recent years in the Bastar region, highlighting the state’s resolve to dismantle left-wing extremist infrastructure. Officials say the operation will continue until the top leadership is neutralized or captured, aiming to deal a decisive blow to the Maoist insurgency in central India.
Sources By Agencies
