NewKerala.com

Key Points

Security forces engaged Maoists in Bokaro's dense forests, killing two insurgents while losing a CoBRA jawan. The operation followed intelligence inputs about extremist presence in Birhordera. Jharkhand Police aims to eradicate Maoist influence by December as part of a nationwide push. Union Home Minister Amit Shah targets complete Maoist elimination by 2026.

Key Points: Two Maoists Killed in Jharkhand Encounter as CRPF Jawan Dies

  • Two Maoists neutralized in Bokaro forest encounter
  • CRPF CoBRA jawan martyred in retaliatory fire
  • AK-47 recovered from slain insurgents
  • Jharkhand aims to eliminate Maoist influence by year-end
2 min read

Two Maoists killed, one CRPF jawan dies in encounter in Jharkhand's Bokaro

A fierce encounter in Bokaro's forests leaves two Maoists dead and a CRPF CoBRA jawan martyred amid intensified anti-Naxal operations.

"The country will be free from the Maoist menace by March 2026 – Amit Shah"

Bokaro, July 16

Two Maoists were gunned down in an encounter with security forces in the dense forests of Birhordera under the Gomia police station limits in Jharkhand's Bokaro district early Wednesday morning, police officials said.

A jawan of the CRPF’s elite CoBRA-209 battalion also died in the exchange of fire, they added.

The operation was launched following intelligence inputs about the presence of Maoists in the area.

Around 6 a.m., as security personnel combed the forest, they came under heavy fire from the extremists. In the retaliatory action, two Maoists were killed. One of them was dressed in a uniform, while the other was in civilian clothing. An AK-47 rifle was recovered from the site of the encounter, police said.

Security forces retrieved the bodies of the slain Maoists, whose identities are yet to be ascertained.

During the exchange of fire, a CoBRA jawan sustained critical injuries. Despite efforts to evacuate him for advanced medical care, he succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

The operation is still underway as police continue to comb the area for other Maoists who may be hiding in the dense forest.

Jharkhand Police, under its intensified anti-Naxal drive, has set a target to make the state free from Maoist influence by the end of this year.

According to official figures, 16 Maoists have been killed and about 10 have surrendered so far this year alone.

In comparison, last year, 244 Maoists were arrested, nine were killed in encounters, and 24 surrendered, including several senior cadres -- four zonal commanders, one sub-general commander, and three area commanders.

Authorities believe that the sustained operations and increasing number of surrenders reflect growing pressure on Maoist groups in the region.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier said that the country will be free from the Maoist menace by March 2026.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I support anti-Maoist operations, I wonder if there's a better way than just encounters. Many Maoists come from poor tribal backgrounds. Shouldn't we focus more on development and education in these areas?
A
Arjun K
The government's target to make Jharkhand Maoist-free by year-end seems ambitious but necessary. These extremists have held back development in tribal areas for decades. Operation must continue with full force!
S
Sarah B
Heartbreaking to read about the jawan's death. His family must be devastated. The government should ensure full compensation and support for his loved ones. These heroes deserve our utmost respect.
V
Vikram M
Notice how one Maoist was in uniform and another in civilian clothes? This shows their deceptive tactics. Our forces must be extra careful during operations. Salute to their bravery in such difficult terrain.
K
Kavya N
The increasing surrenders are a positive sign. Maybe the government should publicize rehabilitation programs more to encourage more Maoists to lay down arms. Violence isn't the solution for anyone.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50