Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur/Bijapur
Raipur/Bijapur, Jan 18: Security forces achieved a major breakthrough in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, neutralising six Maoists, including four women, during a fierce encounter, officials confirmed on Sunday. The operation, carried out by a coordinated team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), COBRA, and Special Task Force (STF), is being hailed as a significant blow to Maoist operations in the region.
Among the deceased were high-profile cadres: notorious commander DVCM Dilip Bedja, ACM Madvi Kosa, woman ACM Lakhi Madkam, and party member Radha. The identities of the remaining two Maoists are yet to be confirmed. Dilip Bedja had long orchestrated violent campaigns in the Indravati Reserve and National Park areas, making him a key target for state forces.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said Bedja was repeatedly offered a chance to surrender but refused. “After rejecting repeated calls to lay down arms, he was neutralised. With his elimination, the National Park area can now be considered largely free of Maoist activity,” Sharma stated.
The encounter also yielded a significant cache of weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, one INSAS rifle, two .303 rifles, and six grenades. Authorities believe the Maoists were planning a major offensive, highlighting the critical role of intelligence in the operation.
Bijapur Superintendent of Police Dr Jitendra Yadav described the engagement as intense, with intermittent firing throughout the day. “The dense forest and challenging terrain made the operation extremely difficult, but our personnel displayed extraordinary courage and strategy,” he said.
Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj Pattilingam, praised the forces for their professionalism. “The DRG, COBRA, and STF conducted a decisive and disciplined operation despite the odds. This marks another step in dismantling Maoist networks in the Bastar region,” he remarked.
The operation is expected to considerably weaken Maoist influence in Bijapur, long considered a stronghold. Security forces continue to conduct search operations to ensure the area remains secure and prevent any regrouping of cadres.