In a significant breakthrough in the fight against Naxalism, security forces have successfully neutralised 16 Naxals, including senior Maoist leader Jairam Reddy, also known as Chalpati, in a joint operation near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border. Reddy, a member of the Naxalite Central Committee, carried a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head, making his elimination a key milestone in the ongoing anti-Naxal operations.

The operation unfolded in Chhattisgarh’s Gariaband district, where 14 bodies of Naxals were initially recovered following a fierce encounter. Inspector General of Raipur Zone, Amresh Mishra, later confirmed that two additional bodies were found, bringing the total number of casualties to 16. Speaking about the operation, IG Mishra highlighted the seizure of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition, including AK-47s, SLRs, INSAS rifles, and other automatic arms. He emphasized that the search operation remains active, signaling the possibility of further recoveries.

Gariaband Superintendent of Police, Nikhil Rakhecha, shed more light on the scale and execution of the operation. According to his statement, the encounter was the result of a coordinated effort by multiple security units, including the Gariaband Operation Group E30, Cobra 207, CRPF 65 and 211 Battalions, and the Special Operations Group (SOG) Nuapada. The collaboration and strategic planning of these forces culminated in a decisive blow to the Naxalite movement in the region.

The operation’s significance was further underlined by the elimination of senior cadres and the recovery of sophisticated weaponry. It demonstrates the growing effectiveness of joint operations involving state and central forces against Naxal strongholds.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the success of the security forces in dismantling Naxal networks, describing it as a pivotal step towards achieving a “Naxal-free Bharat.” Shah remarked, “Another mighty blow to Naxalism. Our security forces achieved major success towards building a Naxal-free Bharat. The CRPF, SOG Odisha, and Chhattisgarh Police neutralised 14 Naxalites in a joint operation along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border. With our resolve for a Naxal-free India and the joint efforts of our security forces, Naxalism is breathing its last today.”

Among the 16 Naxals killed, the death of Jairam alias Chalpati, a high-ranking Central Committee member with a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head, marked a turning point in the campaign. According to Superintendent of Police, Gariaband, Nikhil Rakhecha, this mission stands as a testament to the unwavering efforts of the security forces, who managed to dismantle a key part of the Naxal leadership hierarchy. SP Rakhecha described it as “a major success for the security forces,” highlighting the operation’s strategic importance.

The joint efforts of the CRPF, SoG Odisha, and Chhattisgarh Police received widespread praise, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah calling the operation “a mighty blow to Naxalism.” Shah reiterated the government’s determination to eradicate Naxalism, stating, “With the combined efforts of the CRPF, SoG Odisha, and Chhattisgarh Police, the security forces have neutralized 14 Naxalites in a joint operation along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border. This marks another step towards the end of Naxalism in our country.” His statement underscored the growing momentum in the government’s anti-Naxal campaign, as the forces work tirelessly to ensure peace and stability in conflict-ridden areas.

Adding to the commendations, Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma highlighted the uniqueness of the operation, noting that the elimination of Jairam marked a significant first in the history of anti-Naxal efforts. “14 Naxalites have been killed in 2 days. The special thing is that Odisha cadre CC member Jairam has been killed in Chhattisgarh, and the killing of a CC member is the first such incident in the history of Naxal operations to date,” he said. Sharma further emphasized the gravity of this accomplishment, stating, “Overall, there must have been a reward of more than one crore rupees on his head. So the police have had a big success. Many automatic weapons have also been recovered in this… By March 2026, Naxalism will be completely eradicated not only from Chhattisgarh but from the whole of India.” His remarks resonated as a message of hope for a future free of Naxal influence.

Prominent political figures from across the spectrum also expressed their support for the operation. NCP-SCP MP Supriya Sule, while addressing the issue, stressed the need for national unity in combating threats to security. She stated, “I think any such operations against terrorism, we all stand united and strongly behind the government because when it comes to national and national security issues, clearly we all are with the government.” Her statement reflects a rare moment of bipartisan consensus, highlighting the collective resolve to eliminate Naxalism for the sake of national security.

The operation has not only dealt a heavy blow to the Naxal insurgency but has also sent a strong message about the increasing effectiveness of India’s security forces. As leaders and citizens alike acknowledge the efforts of these brave men and women, the mission stands as a milestone in the journey towards a Naxal-free Bharat.

DGP Khurania reviews security after 14 Naxals neutralised in Odisha-Chhattisgarh border operation

In the wake of the major anti-Maoist operation that neutralised 14 Naxals along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border, Odisha Police has significantly enhanced security measures in the region. The operation, which unfolded in Chhattisgarh’s Kularighat reserve forest area in Gariaband district, just five kilometers from the Nuapada border, has prompted a strategic response to ensure peace and prevent any retaliatory actions by Maoists.

On Wednesday, Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania visited the Naxal-affected districts of Nuapada and Kalahandi to assess the current security scenario. During his visit, he emphasized the importance of maintaining heightened vigilance to counter infiltration and monitor cross-border movements of Maoist cadres. In his statement, Khurania said, “The SPs have been directed to maintain extreme vigilance and deploy special teams at critical points along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border.” This directive reflects the proactive approach of the security forces in fortifying vulnerable areas against potential threats.

The DGP also highlighted the use of modern technologies to strengthen anti-Naxal operations. He stressed the importance of leveraging advanced surveillance equipment, drones, and enhanced communication systems to bolster the efficiency of the forces. By integrating these technologies, the security teams aim to stay ahead in their efforts to combat the Maoist menace.

During his visit, Khurania interacted with security personnel to review operational challenges and assured them of addressing logistical concerns to improve their efficiency. Local police stations have been instructed to strengthen informant networks and encourage residents to report any suspicious activities in their vicinity. Furthermore, collaborative efforts with the Chhattisgarh police have been intensified to monitor transit routes and hideouts used by Maoists, ensuring a coordinated approach to tackling the insurgents.

Acknowledging the dedication and bravery of the personnel involved in the operation, the DGP interacted with SOG jawan Dharmendra Bhoi and CoBRA commando Niraj Kumar over a video call to check on their health. Both were injured during the anti-Maoist operation. This gesture reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting its frontline fighters.

The morale of the security forces received a significant boost with the announcement by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to increase the incentive allowances for Special Operation Group (SOG) personnel from Rs 8,000 to Rs 25,000 per month. The DGP noted that this decision is a recognition of their critical role in safeguarding the region and a step towards improving their welfare.

DGP Khurania was accompanied by IG, South Western Range Niti Shekhar, DIG (Operations) Akhileswar Singh, and Nuapada SP Gundala Reddy Raghavendra during the visit. Their presence underscores the collaborative efforts at various levels of the administration to ensure a comprehensive approach to security.

The operation’s location, in the Kularighat reserve forest area, served as a strategic point for Maoists, but the swift and decisive actions of the security forces have dismantled their activities. With strengthened surveillance, enhanced collaboration, and community involvement, the Odisha Police remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region.