In a recent battle in Chhattisgarh, Indian security forces killed 31 Maoist rebels. The clash took place in the forests of Bijapur district, and two Indian commandos were also killed. Two more security force members were injured.
Long-Running Maoist Insurgency
Chhattisgarh has been affected by a long-running insurgency led by Maoist rebels. The Maoists claim they are fighting for the rights of poor and tribal people. The insurgency started in the 1960s in West Bengal and has since spread across many parts of India, including Chhattisgarh.
The government has been working to end the rebellion, and this recent clash is seen as a big step forward in their efforts.
The Battle and Results
Police said they have found the bodies of 31 rebels. The security forces also recovered guns and grenade launchers from the rebels. India’s Interior Minister, Amit Shah, called the operation a “big success.” He said the government hopes to end the Maoist rebellion by 2026.
Ongoing Conflict
While the government has made progress, the Maoists still control some areas in India, especially in a region called the "red corridor," which stretches from north-east to central India. The violence continues, with many rebels and security forces losing their lives each year.
Last year, around 287 Maoists were killed, most of them in Chhattisgarh. Over 10,000 people have died in the conflict since the 1960s.