In Chhattisgarh, an IED blast, planted by Naxalites, resulted in the martyrdom of ASP Akash Rao Giripunje and injuries to several other police personnel in Sukma district. The incident occurred near Dondra village on Monday during a patrol conducted in light of a bandh called by Naxalites. The blast took place between 9 and 10 a.m. ASP Giripunje, who sustained severe injuries, succumbed during treatment at the Konta hospital. The area has been cordoned off, and search operations have been intensified. The incident is seen as a significant challenge to the ongoing anti-Naxal operations in the state, as security forces have been making inroads against the Naxalites in recent months. Deputy CM Vijay Shamra expressed grief over the loss of ASP Giripunje, describing him as a brave officer who had received several gallantry awards.
