In Chhattisgarh, a major incident unfolded as Naxalites detonated an IED in Sukma district. ASP Akash Rao Giripunje was killed in the blast, and several other police personnel sustained injuries. The incident occurred near the village of Dondra. The injured officers were immediately taken to the hospital in Konta. The blast took place during a patrol conducted in light of a bandh called by the Naxalites. ASP Giripunje succumbed to his injuries during treatment. The incident has led to increased search operations in the area. Chhattisgarh’s Deputy CM, Vijay Shamra, expressed deep sorrow, calling Giripunje a brave officer and a recipient of numerous gallantry awards. This attack highlights the ongoing challenges posed by Naxal violence, despite recent successes of security forces. Similar attacks have occurred previously, including a major Naxal assault in Bijapur in January 2025, which resulted in the deaths of nine people.
