Decisive Victory: Top Maoist Leader Among 10 Neutralized in Chhattisgarh Encounter

In a powerful and decisive operation, security forces in Chhattisgarh have delivered a crushing blow to Maoist insurgency, neutralizing a formidable top commander and nine other extremists in a fierce encounter within the dense forests of Gariaband district. This significant victory marks a pivotal moment in the state’s relentless fight against Naxalism, effectively dismantling a key leadership figure and disrupting their operational capabilities.

The encounter, which unfolded in the Mainpur forest area of Gariaband, saw a joint team of the elite CoBRA 204th battalion and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) engage a heavily armed Maoist contingent.

Among the 10 extremists killed was Modem Balkrishna, a central committee member and commander of the Mainpur-Nuapada Divisional Committee, notorious for his involvement in numerous violent incidents and carrying a staggering bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head. His demise represents a major intelligence and operational success for the security forces, as Balkrishna was a long-standing and highly influential figure in the region's Maoist hierarchy.

Sources indicate that the operation was meticulously planned, based on precise intelligence regarding the presence of a senior Maoist leader and his cadre.

The security personnel, demonstrating exceptional courage and tactical prowess, successfully cornered the insurgents, leading to a prolonged and intense gun battle. Following the encounter, a substantial cache of weapons was recovered from the site, including high-calibre firearms such as an AK-47 rifle, an INSAS rifle, two .303 rifles, and other sophisticated weaponry, along with a large quantity of ammunition and incriminating Maoist literature.

The recovery of these arms further underscores the intent and capability of the neutralized group.

The elimination of Modem Balkrishna and his cadre is expected to severely cripple the Maoist movement, particularly in the critical Odisha-Chhattisgarh border area where he wielded considerable influence.

Balkrishna was known for orchestrating several major attacks against security forces and for his role in expanding the Maoist network across these inter-state boundaries. His removal creates a significant vacuum in the leadership structure of the Mainpur-Nuapada Division, potentially weakening their command and control, and demoralizing their ranks.

This success is a testament to the unwavering commitment and strategic efforts of the security forces, who have been conducting sustained anti-Maoist operations across the Bastar region and its peripheries.

It reaffirms the government’s resolve to restore peace and stability to the affected areas, empowering local communities and fostering development. The operation sends a clear message that the state will continue its robust efforts to counter insurgency, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.