NIA Unveils Naxal Conspiracy: Key Maoist Leader Chargesheeted in Deadly Jharkhand Ambush on Security Forces

In a significant move against left-wing extremism, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a detailed chargesheet against Deepak Ganjhu, a prominent leader of the banned CPI (Maoist), for his alleged masterminding of a deadly Naxal attack on security forces in Jharkhand earlier this year.

The attack, which claimed the life of a brave CRPF jawan and left another injured, sent shockwaves through the region, underscoring the persistent threat posed by extremist elements.

The incident, which forms the core of the NIA's meticulous investigation, unfolded on January 15, 2024. During a routine anti-Naxal operation in the dense forest area between Patatorab and Tungilota villages, falling under the Goilkera police station in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, a combined team of CRPF personnel and Jharkhand Police faced a brutal ambush.

Maoist operatives, allegedly led by Ganjhu, detonated powerful improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and opened indiscriminate fire, targeting the unsuspecting security personnel.

The cowardly attack resulted in the tragic martyrdom of CRPF Constable Sujit Kumar and inflicted serious injuries upon Constable Richard Lakra.

The Naxals, after perpetrating the violence, managed to flee into the thick jungle, leaving behind a scene of devastation and loss. The NIA took over the investigation from the Jharkhand Police, meticulously piecing together evidence to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.

Deepak Ganjhu, alias Deepak Nagesia, has been identified as a key figure in the CPI (Maoist) hierarchy, serving as a central committee member of its Bihar-Jharkhand Special Area Committee (BJSAC).

According to the NIA's chargesheet, Ganjhu played a pivotal role in the conspiracy, actively participating in the planning and execution of the ambush. His involvement extended to the planting of the lethal IEDs, which were strategically placed to inflict maximum damage on the security forces.

The agency's findings suggest that the attack was not merely an opportunistic act but a calculated move by the CPI (Maoist) to disrupt the democratic process and sow fear among the populace.

The Naxal outfit, through such acts of violence, aims to undermine governmental authority and prevent developmental initiatives in tribal and remote areas.

Ganjhu has been chargesheeted under stringent sections of various laws, reflecting the gravity of his alleged crimes. These include Sections 302 (murder), 307 (attempt to murder), 120B (criminal conspiracy), and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Additionally, he faces charges under Sections 16, 18, and 20 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which specifically deal with terrorist acts and membership of terrorist organizations. Further charges include Section 27 of the Arms Act and Sections 3/4 of the Explosive Substances Act, emphasizing the use of illegal weapons and explosives in the attack.

This chargesheet marks a crucial step in bringing those responsible for the Jharkhand Naxal attack to justice.

The NIA continues its relentless efforts to dismantle Naxal networks and ensure the safety and security of citizens, reaffirming the government's unwavering commitment to combating extremist violence across the nation.