Intensified Security Operations in Bastar Highlight Progress Toward Naxal-Free India Goal, Amid Calls for Civilian Safeguards
Published on: September 29, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Bijapur, India
Chhattisgarh’s anti-Naxal campaign achieved a somber milestone on September 29, 2025, as the year’s Maoist death toll surpassed 250 following a intense gunbattle in Bijapur district that neutralized three cadres. The clash erupted during “Operation Black Forest” near Karregutta hills in the Pamed forest area, a known Maoist bastion bordering Dantewada.
A joint contingent of CRPF, District Reserve Guard (DRG), and CoBRA forces, acting on real-time intelligence, engaged a PLGA squad, recovering two INSAS rifles, a 9mm pistol, 15 IEDs, and propaganda materials. The slain insurgents, carrying a combined bounty of ₹8 lakh, were identified as area committee members linked to prior ambushes on security convoys.
Also read- https://www.btnewsindia.com/heavy-rains-alert-monsoon-bids-farewell-amid-flood-risks-in-key-districts/ https://www.btnewsindia.com/escalating-tensions-in-ladakh-sonam-wangchuk-detained-amid-deadly-protests-over-statehood-demands/
This incident pushes the 2025 tally 31% higher than 2024’s 219, underscoring the efficacy of fortified forward camps and drone surveillance introduced post the BJP’s 2023 victory. Chief Minister Sai commended the forces, attributing success to the Modi government’s ₹2,000 crore allocation for anti-Naxal ops, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated the March 2026 deadline for eradication.
Yet, Amnesty International flagged 28 civilian casualties in crossfire this year, urging better intel protocols. In response, the state unveiled a ₹300 crore package for victim rehabilitation, including trauma counseling and land rights for 5,000 affected families in Sukma and Bijapur. As operations intensify, balancing aggression with community integration remains key to sustaining peace in Chhattisgarh’s 10,000 sq km red corridor.
