Sukma, Chhattisgarh — Security forces shot dead three Naxals, including two women, during an encounter in the Kolmal Pat forest area of Sukma district on Sunday, the police said.
Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) P. Sundarraj informed that the exchange of fire began around 6 AM under the Chintakonta police station limits. After the encounter, a search operation in the area led to the recovery of the bodies.
Authorities also seized a .303 rifle, VGA launchers, and other weapons and ammunition from the site. According to police, the slain Naxals collectively carried a reward of ₹15 lakh on their heads.
“Search operations are still underway. The momentum of our operations has left Naxals with no option but to surrender,” IG Sundarraj said.
He added that security forces remain focused on eliminating Naxal violence from the region.
“Goal: Naxal-free Chhattisgarh by 2026”
Sundarraj reiterated the state’s objective of making Chhattisgarh completely Naxal-free by March 31, 2026. He highlighted significant progress in anti-insurgency efforts:
- Over 2,200 Naxals have surrendered in the last 20 months
- More than 450 Naxal bodies recovered in operations over two seasons
- Senior cadres including Basavaraju eliminated
- Around 300 Maoist members — including Central Committee & Politburo leaders — have recently renounced violence
He described Left Wing Extremism as a decades-long national security challenge but said recent gains have been “decisive” for forces in the Bastar region.
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