AMBUSHES EXPOSE FLAWS IN CHHATTISGARH POLICE OPS

The attacks underscore critical failures in operational procedures and highlight the Naxals' evolving tactics.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

The recent killing of eight Chhattisgarh security personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Bastar Tigers, along with a civilian who was driving their private vehicle, in a landmine Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast-marking the second such attack in the past two years-has raised serious concerns.

The incident highlights two main issues: the failure of senior officials to enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on the ground, and the continued reliance on outdated tactics that have proven ineffective in preventing targeted attacks by Naxals.

The recent deaths will also deal a blow to the state government, which has been 'celebrating' the record number of Naxals it claims to have killed over the past year, with reports suggesting 217 deaths.

All eight of the victims were former Naxals who had been inducted into the " DRG and Bastar Fighters, both units of the state police.

Their vehicle was targeted near Ambeli village under the Kutru police station in Bijapur.