Bijapur Encounter : 31 Naxalites Killed in One of the Longest Anti-Naxal Operations

Inside Story of Bijapur Encounter : 31 Naxalites Killed in One of the Longest Anti-Naxal Operations

Bijapur Encounter :- In one of the most significant blows to Naxalism in recent years, a fierce encounter between security forces and Naxalites in the dense forests of Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, left 31 Maoists dead. The operation, which lasted for over 72 hours, marks a turning point in India’s decades-long battle against left-wing extremism. The slain Naxalites include several high-ranking commanders, dealing a severe blow to the Maoist infrastructure in the region.

The Encounter: A Prolonged Battle

The operation, codenamed Operation Prahar, was launched by a joint team of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), its elite CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) unit, and the Chhattisgarh Police. Based on intelligence inputs about the presence of a large group of Naxalites in the forests near Pidiya village, security forces began their mission on April 15.

The encounter, which started on the morning of April 16, quickly escalated into a prolonged gunfight. The Naxalites, armed with automatic weapons and explosives, put up stiff resistance. However, the security forces, equipped with advanced weaponry and drones for surveillance, managed to outmaneuver the insurgents. The operation continued for over 72 hours, with intermittent exchanges of fire, before the area was finally secured on April 19.

Among the Slain Naxalites

Among the 31 Naxalites killed, several were high-ranking commanders with bounties on their heads. The most prominent name is that of Hidma, a senior leader of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), who carried a reward of ₹25 lakh. Hidma was known for orchestrating several deadly attacks on security forces in the past.

Another significant figure was Sujata, the secretary of the Maoist Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee, who was instrumental in recruiting and training new cadres. Her elimination is expected to disrupt the Maoist recruitment network in the region.

The encounter also claimed the lives of several lower-ranking cadres, including women Naxalites, highlighting the widespread involvement of locals in the Maoist movement.

The Aftermath: A Major Victory for Security Forces

The Bijapur encounter is being hailed as one of the most successful anti-Naxal operations in recent history. It not only neutralized a significant number of insurgents but also disrupted the Maoist chain of command in the region. Security forces recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, grenades, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which were likely intended for future attacks.

Speaking to the media, Chhattisgarh Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Juneja said, “This operation is a testament to the bravery and strategic planning of our forces. It will significantly weaken the Naxalite movement in the region.”

The Human Cost: A Reminder of the Ongoing Conflict

While the operation is a major victory for the security forces, it also underscores the human cost of India’s battle against Naxalism. The Maoist insurgency, which began in the 1960s, has claimed thousands of lives, including security personnel, civilians, and Naxalites.

The Bijapur encounter has reignited debates about the root causes of Naxalism, including poverty, lack of development, and tribal displacement. Experts argue that while military operations are necessary, a long-term solution requires addressing these underlying issues.

What’s Next?

The success of Operation Prahar has boosted the morale of security forces, but the fight against Naxalism is far from over. Intelligence reports suggest that the Maoists are regrouping in other parts of Chhattisgarh and neighboring states. Security forces are now focusing on consolidating their gains and preventing retaliatory attacks.

Meanwhile, the Chhattisgarh government has announced plans to intensify development initiatives in the region, including building roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. The aim is to win the hearts and minds of the local population and reduce the appeal of the Maoist ideology.

Conclusion

The Bijapur encounter is a significant milestone in India’s fight against Naxalism. It demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between central and state forces, as well as the importance of intelligence-driven operations. However, it also serves as a reminder that the path to lasting peace lies in addressing the socio-economic grievances that fuel the insurgency.

As the dust settles in the forests of Bijapur, the nation watches with hope that this operation will pave the way for a safer and more prosperous future for the people of Chhattisgarh.