10 Naxalis Killed In Chhattisgarh Encounter Taking Maoist Fatalities To Highest-Ever Annual Count In Security Operations

10 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces on Friday (22 November) in the southernmost district of Sukma, Chhattisgarh. This incident brings the total number of Maoists killed in the state this year to 207.

Officials confirmed that all the security personnel involved in the operation are safe. According to government sources, the bodies of 10 CPI (Maoist) cadres were recovered after an exchange of gunfire in the forested area near Bhandarpadar village.

Acting on intelligence about Maoists from the Konta and Kistaram area committee, a joint team comprising the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and CRPF launched the operation.

The encounter erupted unexpectedly during the mission. Subsequent search operations, conducted around 11 am, led to the recovery of 10 Maoist bodies.

The Maoists were found armed with automatic weapons, including INSAS rifles, AK-47s, and SLRs, which were seized. The search operation continues.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai commended the security forces for their efforts, reiterating his government's zero-tolerance policy toward Naxalism.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader emphasised that fostering development, peace, and security in the Maoist-affected Bastar region remains his administration's top priority.

This year has seen the highest number of Maoist fatalities in the state since its formation in 2000, with 207 killed so far. However, Maoist violence has also claimed the lives of 60 civilians and 17 security personnel.