Major Victory: Security Forces Neutralize 16 Naxalites in Sukma Encounter

Security forces in Chhattisgarh successfully neutralized 16 Naxalites in the Sukma district, recovering a large cache of arms. Chhattisgarh's Deputy Chief Minister reinforced the government's commitment to eliminating Naxalism by 2026. The operation, involving joint efforts of DRG and CRPF, highlights a significant step in the ongoing anti-Naxal drive.

In a significant anti-Naxal operation, security forces in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district have neutralized 16 Naxalites, recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition. The encounter took place on Saturday in the Kerlapal area and is hailed as one of the biggest in recent times.

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao reiterated the government's commitment to eradicating armed Naxalism, emphasizing the resolve under Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 'We aim to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026 with the bravery and dedication of our forces,' Sao declared, following the recovery of 16 bodies and the seizure of sophisticated weapons.

Sukma's Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan confirmed the encounter's success, noting injuries to two jawans. The operation, based on specific intelligence, was launched by the District Reserve Guard and Central Reserve Police Force, with intensive searches now ongoing in the forested areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)