Chhattisgarh: 11 women among 31 Naxalites killed; 2 cops martyred

REBEL TOLL AT 81 THIS YEAR

- NARESH BISWANI

Security forces in Chhattisgarh launched a large-scale operation in the Indravati National Park area, resulting in the deaths of 31 Naxalites, including 11 women, officials reported. The operation, one of the most significant in recent years, also saw the loss of lives of two security personnel while two others sustained injuries.

According to Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, over 650 personnel participated in the offensive, approaching the Naxal hideout from multiple directions.

He stated that 81 Naxalites have been neutralised by security forces in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year, compared to 219 in 2024. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Naxals will be eradicated by March 31, 2026 and no citizen of the country has to lose his life due to it.

"I also reiterate my resolve that before 31 March, 2026, we will completely eradicate Naxalism from the country so that no citizen of the Country has to lose his life due to it," he wrote on 'X' Ca Cin in Hindi.

Shah said the security forces have also lost two of its brave soldiers "in the effort to end anti-human Naxalism" and the country will always be indebted to these heroes.

"I express my heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyred soldiers," he said.