From silence to gunfire; inside Maoist encounter
PTC News Desk: Amidst the dense foliage of Chhattisgarh's jungle, a haunting silence is punctuated only by the rhythmic footsteps of security personnel. Suddenly, the tranquility is shattered by the thunderous roar of gunfire.
A gripping video captured by a security operative offers a glimpse into the intense reality of Chhattisgarh's largest anti-Maoist operation, which resulted in the demise of 29 insurgents, including the notorious senior leader Shankar Rao, who carried a hefty bounty of Rs 25 lakh on his head.
The dramatic showdown unfolded around 2 pm amidst the labyrinthine Hapatola forest near Binagunda village in Kanker district. The operation was meticulously executed by a joint task force comprising the Border Security Force (BSF) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of the state police. Among the casualties were three individuals, including two BSF personnel and one from the DRG, who sustained injuries during the skirmish.
The riveting one-minute footage offers a raw portrayal of the perilous terrain as security personnel navigate through the wilderness. At the 20-second mark, the tranquility is shattered by two rapid shots from a rifle, prompting shouts and commotion from various directions. The videographer swiftly issues a cautionary directive to his comrades, urging them to proceed with caution and refrain from hasty actions.
"Stay vigilant, no firing from behind," he emphatically warns, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The video culminates with a reiterated plea for caution, encapsulating the tension and danger inherent in their mission.
At the helm of this daring operation was Laxman Kewat, a decorated officer renowned for his prowess in encounters. With an impressive tally of 44 Maoist eliminations under his belt, Kewat is a recipient of the prestigious President's Award along with six other commendations, solidifying his reputation as a seasoned specialist in combating insurgency.
Thwarting a major plot: Chhattisgarh CM hails success of anti-Maoist operation
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai hailed the recent operation as a monumental achievement in the state's ongoing battle against Maoist insurgents. Speaking on Tuesday evening, he commended the bravery of all involved and emphasized the significance of thwarting what he described as a potentially catastrophic event.
Expressing concerns over possible attempts to disrupt the upcoming elections, Sai highlighted the strategic location of the gunfight near both the Bastar and Kanker Lok Sabha constituencies, with Bastar set to vote in the first phase on Friday. He suggested that the Maoists may have been plotting a major incident aimed at influencing the electoral process, a threat that was neutralized by the swift action of security forces.
Sai also referenced Home Minister Amit Shah's commitment to eradicating Maoist activity in the Bastar region, emphasizing the government's dedication to achieving lasting peace. He reiterated the call for Maoists to renounce violence, engage in dialogue, and embrace the path of development.
Providing reassurance, Sai confirmed that the three injured personnel were in stable condition and receiving medical treatment, underscoring the government's commitment to the well-being of its security forces.
- With inputs from agencies
