January 21, 2025: In a major crackdown against Maoist insurgency, at least 14 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district, near the state's border with Odisha. The operation, which began on January 19, was jointly conducted by the Chhattisgarh Police and security teams from Odisha.

Among those killed was a top Maoist leader carrying a bounty of ₹1 crore. The casualties also included two women Maoists who were neutralized earlier during the operation on Monday.

According to officials, the encounter took place in the Kularighat reserve forest, a known Maoist stronghold just five kilometers from Odisha’s Nuapada district. Late Monday night and early Tuesday morning, fresh gunfire resulted in the deaths of 12 additional Maoists, bringing the total toll to 14.

The operation involved personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), CoBRA commandos, and Odisha’s Special Operation Group (SOG).

On Monday, a CoBRA jawan sustained injuries during an exchange of fire that also saw the elimination of two women Maoists. Security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons, including a self-loading rifle, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The ongoing operation marks a significant victory in the region’s anti-Maoist efforts. Officials suggest that the casualty count may rise as the search in the dense forest area continues.

Chhattisgarh, particularly its border regions, has long been a hotspot for Maoist activity, and this joint operation underscores the intensified efforts by state and central forces to combat the insurgency.