In one of the biggest counter-Naxal operations in recent years, security forces eliminated over 34 Naxalites in the forests along the Narayanpur-Bijapur border in Chhattisgarh on Wednesday. Among those believed to be killed is Basavaraju alias Nambala Keshava Rao, the top Naxal commander and current General Secretary of the CPI (Maoist). Basavaraju had a bounty of Rs one crore on his head and was one of India’s most wanted insurgents.
Gunfight in dense forests
The encounter broke out in the densely forested region between Abhujmad and Indravati National Park, when a joint anti-Naxal operation was launched by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) from four districts. The area is considered a Maoist stronghold and notoriously difficult to access due to thick vegetation and hilly terrain.
According to Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who also handles the home portfolio, more than 26 Naxals were confirmed dead, with the toll expected to rise. “Some of them are likely top cadres,” he stated.
Casualties
Tragically, a police supporter was killed during the operation, and one DRG jawan was injured. The condition of the injured personnel is said to be stable. The encounter is ongoing, and combing operations are still underway to locate any remaining insurgents and recover weapons and equipment from the site.
If confirmed, the death of Basavaraju would mark a major setback for the Maoist movement, especially in central India. His elimination would leave a significant leadership vacuum in the CPI (Maoist) ranks and could disrupt their activities in the region.
Further updates are awaited as the situation develops.