The End of a Shadow: Notorious Maoist Leader Modem Balakrishna, Underground for 25 Years, Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter

A quarter-century of evading justice has come to a definitive end for Modem Balakrishna, a senior Maoist leader known also as Modem Laxman. Balakrishna, who had been a ghost in the shadows for 25 years, was killed in a fierce encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district, marking a significant victory against the outlawed outfit.

The dramatic confrontation unfolded in the dense forests bordering the Kutru and Pamed areas of Bijapur, a region long plagued by Naxalite insurgency.

Security forces, acting on credible intelligence, launched an operation that culminated in the neutralization of one of the most elusive figures in the CPI (Maoist) hierarchy.

Modem Balakrishna was a key figure within the extremist organization, holding the influential position of Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) and serving as the Secretary of the CPI (Maoist)'s West Bastar Division.

His prolonged presence in the Naxalite movement underscored his deep entrenchment and strategic importance. Authorities had placed an Rs 8 lakh bounty on his head, reflecting the severity of the crimes he was accused of and the threat he posed to regional stability.

Balakrishna’s criminal dossier was extensive, listing numerous heinous acts that terrorized the local populace and challenged state authority.

He was implicated in multiple murders, a series of attacks on security forces, and various incidents of extortion. His death is expected to deliver a substantial blow to the Maoist operations in the West Bastar region, potentially disrupting their command structure, recruitment efforts, and financial networks.

The elimination of such a high-ranking and long-standing Maoist leader is a testament to the persistent and courageous efforts of Chhattisgarh’s security forces.

It represents a critical step forward in the ongoing fight to restore peace and order in the Naxal-affected areas, offering a glimmer of hope for development and stability to the communities that have long suffered under the shadow of insurgency.