Major Naxalite Encounter in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh: Six Killed and Two Soldiers Martyred

Significant Clash in Bijapur District

On Wednesday, a fierce encounter took place in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, resulting in the deaths of at least six Naxalites. Officials reported that during an anti-Naxal operation, two members of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) lost their lives. According to a police officer, the clash occurred near the forested area of Gangloor, close to the Dantewada-Bijapur border. This year alone, 268 Naxalites have been reported killed in various operations.

Details of the Ongoing Operation

The operation involved a joint team comprising the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), and Cobra units of the CRPF. DIG Kamlochan Kashyap from Dantewada stated that the encounter has been ongoing for the past two hours. He confirmed that six Naxalites have been neutralized, and their bodies have been recovered. The number of casualties among the Naxalites is expected to rise as the operation continues, with security forces having surrounded a large group of them.

Context of Recent Naxalite Activities

Earlier, on November 30, a total of 37 Naxalites surrendered in Dantewada, with 27 of them carrying a bounty of ₹65 lakh. This surrender was part of the 'Poona Margem' initiative aimed at rehabilitation and social reintegration, supported by senior police and CRPF officials. Among those who surrendered, 12 were women, highlighting the inclusive approach of the program.