The effects of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s pledge to eliminate Naxalism from India are beginning to show. Over the past few months, several major operations have been carried out in Naxal-affected states. However, the most significant operation is currently underway in the Karregutta Hills of Bijapur, Chhattisgarh.
According to reports, security forces have surrounded nearly 1,000 Naxals in this region. So far, five Naxals have been reported killed, and the operation is expected to continue for the next two to three days. This is being described as the largest anti-Naxal operation to date.
Massive Anti-Naxal Drive in Dense Forests of Bijapur
Security forces have launched a major counter-Naxal operation in the remote forest areas of Bijapur. In the Karregutta Hills, nearly 1,000 Naxals have been surrounded. Given the intensity and scale, the operation may extend for a few more days.
Targeting Top Naxal Leaders: Hidma and Deva
The operation is based on intelligence inputs, specifically targeting top Naxal commander Hidma and battalion chief Deva, who are believed to be hiding in these hills. The area is known as a stronghold of Battalion No. 1 of the Maoist group. Surrounded by hills and dense forests, it has long served as a safe haven for Naxal operatives.
Joint Operation by Elite Forces
The operation involves multiple units, including DRG (District Reserve Guard), Bastar Fighters, STF (Special Task Force), CRPF, and Cobra commandos. Security forces have effectively sealed off all escape routes by encircling the hills. The area is also under aerial surveillance via helicopters.
Naxals Warned Locals
A few days before the operation began, Naxals had warned local villagers to stay away from the hills, claiming the area was rigged with a large number of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices). This suggests that the Maoists were aware of the upcoming operation and had made extensive preparations for defense.
Amit Shah’s Deadline to End Naxalism
In February 2025, Home Minister Amit Shah announced a deadline to completely eliminate Naxalism from India by March 31, 2026. The current operation is considered a critical part of that broader strategy. As a result of this intensified crackdown, nearly 150 Naxals have been killed in Chhattisgarh alone in 2025, including 124 from the Bastar Division.
