Security forces neutralised four Maoists in an intense gunfight along the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border on Friday.
The encounter comes as part of an ongoing effort to eliminate insurgent activities in the region.
According to officials, a tactical operation was initiated based on intelligence reports of Maoist presence near Kawande. The mission, led by senior officers and involving over 300 commandos, culminated in a two-hour-long exchange of gunfire on Friday morning. The Maoists reportedly opened fire on the forces, prompting a swift retaliatory response.
This operation follows the recent elimination of top Maoist leader Basavaraju and 26 guerrillas in Chhattisgarh, considered one of the biggest breakthroughs in the government’s campaign against insurgency. Sources suggest the government’s targeted deadline of March 2026 for eradicating “red terror” may now be accelerated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the forces for their success, labelling it a “landmark achievement” in the fight against Maoist extremism.
