12 Maoists Killed In Major Encounter In Bijapur Ahead Of Panchayat Elections

As many as 12 Maoists were killed during a significant encounter with security forces in the National Park area of Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, ahead of the upcoming Panchayat elections, police confirmed on Sunday. The operation, which is still ongoing, marks another major development in the ongoing security efforts to combat Maoist insurgency in the region.

The fierce gunfight erupted when a joint team of security personnel launched an anti-Maoist operation in Bijapur district. The team, consisting of personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the elite CoBRA unit (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), had received information regarding the presence of Maoist cadres from the ‘West Bastar division’ in the area.

The encounter follows a deadly operation on January 31, which saw the death of eight Maoists in Bijapur. Police stated that the recent clashes are part of intensified security measures aimed at curbing Maoist activities in the state.

Government’s Commitment To Eradicate Naxalism By 2026

The security operations align with the central government’s commitment to “end Naxalism” by 2026. Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated this pledge on January 6, shortly after a deadly incident in Bijapur, where Maoists attacked a convoy, killing eight DRG jawans and one driver.

The attack involved the detonation of an IED on the Bedre-Kutru Road, underscoring the deadly tactics employed by the insurgents.

The surge in Maoist casualties this year highlights the intensity of ongoing operations. According to Chhattisgarh Police, 49 Maoists have been killed so far in 2025 across various encounters in the state. Of these, 33 were killed in the Bastar division, which includes Bijapur.

In another significant encounter in Gariaband district on January 20-21, 16 Maoists were neutralized by security forces.

Last year, the state saw a substantial increase in Maoist neutralizations, with 219 insurgents killed in separate operations. These figures demonstrate the growing intensity of the conflict as security forces continue their efforts to dismantle Maoist strongholds in Chhattisgarh.

Ongoing Efforts To Ensure Electoral Security

With the Panchayat elections approaching, the security forces remain on high alert. The recent successes against Maoist insurgents are seen as a crucial step in securing the state ahead of the elections. Authorities are committed to neutralizing the threat posed by the Maoists, ensuring the safety of citizens and officials during the voting period.

As operations continue, the region remains a focal point of security concerns, with both the state and central governments intensifying efforts to eliminate Maoist forces in the area.