The recent encounter between security forces and Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district resulted in the deaths of six Naxalites, who were identified as dreaded cadres carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 38 lakh. Here are the key details from the incident:
1. **Location and Encounter**: The encounter occurred near Gobel and Thulthuli villages under Orcha police station limits on Friday. Security forces, including personnel from the police's District Reserve Guard, ITBP, and CRPF, launched the operation based on intelligence inputs about the presence of Maoists.
2. **Casualties and Recovery**: Initially, seven Naxalites were reported killed, but the toll was later revised to six, including three women. The encounter resulted in the recovery of bodies of the slain Naxalites and weapons, including rifles, grenade launcher shells, and explosives, among other items.
3. **Identification of Slain Naxalites**: Among the deceased, four were identified as carrying rewards of Rs 8 lakh each on their heads, while the remaining two had rewards of Rs 5 lakh and Rs 1 lakh, respectively. The operation targeted members of the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) and the east Bastar division formations of the CPI (Maoist).
4. **Injuries and Evacuation**: Three security personnel sustained injuries in the encounter and were airlifted to Raipur for advanced treatment. Their condition was reported to be stable.
5. **Impact and Fear Among Naxalites**: The operation dealt a significant blow to Naxalite forces, particularly PLGA company no. 6, and instilled fear among Naxalites in the east Bastar division. It is considered one of the biggest attacks by security forces on the Naxalites in the region.
6. **Call for Surrender**: Following the operation, police officials appealed to Naxalites to surrender and join the mainstream. The focus remains on protecting residents from Maoist ideology to establish peace and development in the region.
7. **Overall Statistics**: So far this year, Bastar division has witnessed 71 encounters resulting in the deaths of 123 Naxalites and the recovery of 136 firearms. Additionally, 339 Naxalites have surrendered in the division during the same period.
The encounter underscores the ongoing efforts by security forces to combat Naxalism in Chhattisgarh and the broader Bastar division, aiming to establish peace and development in the region.
