Tragic Loss: BSF Jawan Killed in Naxal IED Blast in Chhattisgarh

In consecutive Naxal attacks within Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, tragedy struck on Thursday when a 45-year-old Border Security Force (BSF) jawan, Head Constable Akhilesh Rai, lost his life in a Kanker district Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion. Rai sustained severe injuries during a Road Opening Party (ROP) operation in Sadaktola village, nearly 5 kilometers from a temple under Partapur police station jurisdiction. The ROP, conducted jointly by district police and BSF, aims to clear roads before construction work or the movement of security forces or VIPs.

Despite immediate medical attention, Rai, a resident of Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, succumbed to his injuries. Search operations in the area are underway, led by local police, District Reserve Guard (DRG), and BSF.

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This incident follows another tragic event the day before, where Maoists orchestrated an IED blast near an iron ore mine in Amdai hills, Narayanpur district. In this attack, Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) constable Kamlesh Kumar lost his life, and another constable sustained minor injuries. Following the blast, Naxals engaged in gunfire with the security forces, prompting a counter-response.

These back-to-back incidents underscore the persistent challenges faced by security forces in the region. The ongoing joint efforts of local police, DRG, and BSF in conducting comprehensive searches reflect a commitment to enhancing security in the affected areas.