Security Forces Eliminate Top Maoist Leader in Chhattisgarh Encounter

Major Operation Against Maoists in Bijapur

In a significant operation on Saturday, security forces in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, successfully killed two Maoists, including a prominent leader named Dilip Bedja. This information was confirmed by police officials.

A senior officer reported that the encounter began early in the morning in the hilly forests of the northwestern region of the district. The joint team of security forces launched an anti-Naxal operation based on intelligence regarding the presence of Maoists.

The operation involved personnel from the Chhattisgarh Police's Special Task Force, District Reserve Guard units, and a specialized unit of the CRPF known as Cobra (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action). This initiative was triggered by intelligence about Bedja's activities in the area.

The identity of the second Maoist killed in the encounter has not yet been established. Officials stated, "So far, the bodies of two Maoists and an AK-47 rifle have been recovered from the site."

The search operation is still ongoing. The officer noted that Bedja was actively involved in the National Park Area Committee of the Maoists and had participated in several attacks.

Earlier this month, on January 3, 14 Maoists were killed in two encounters across the Bastar region, which includes Bijapur and six other districts. Last year, security forces in Chhattisgarh eliminated 285 Maoists during various encounters. The central government has set a deadline of March 31 to eradicate left-wing extremism.