Security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district have successfully neutralized three Naxalites, including two women, who collectively carried a bounty of Rs 15 lakh. The intense encounter occurred Sunday morning in the forests of Tumalpad village, situated between the Bhejji and Chintagufa police station limits. This operation was initiated following credible intelligence regarding the presence of Maoist operatives in the region.
The identified Naxalites include Madvi Deva, an area committee member, Podiam Gangi, a commander of the Chetna Natya Mandli (CNM) – a Maoist cultural wing – and Sodhi Gangi, a Kistaram area committee member. Following a prolonged exchange of gunfire, the bodies of the three Naxalites were recovered during a subsequent search of the encounter site.
Authorities reported the recovery of significant weaponry and explosives, including Barrel Grenade Launchers (BGLs), a 303 rifle, and VGA launchers, along with other arms and ammunition. The Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, highlighted that search operations are continuing rigorously in the affected area, emphasizing the pressure on Naxal groups.
This operation contributes to the significant number of Naxalites neutralized this year in the Bastar region, with officials reporting 233 fatalities so far, including high-ranking members of central committees and cadres of the Peoples’ Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA). The government remains committed to eradicating Naxalism nationwide.
