A gunfight in Chhattisgarh claimed the lives of 31 Maoists, bringing the total death toll in 2025 to 81

Chhattisgarh Gunfight Leaves 31 Maoists Dead, Marking a Deadly Year of Clashes

In a major operation against Maoist insurgents, security forces in Chhattisgarh engaged in a fierce gunfight that resulted in the deaths of 31 Maoists. The encounter, which took place in the dense forests of Kanker district, is being hailed as one of the most significant counter-insurgency successes of the year. With this latest operation, the total number of Maoists killed in security operations in 2025 has risen to 81.

According to officials, the gunfight erupted when a team of security personnel, including personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), the Special Task Force (STF), and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), was conducting a search operation in the region. Intelligence reports had suggested the presence of a large Maoist group in the area. Upon being challenged, the insurgents opened fire, triggering a prolonged battle that lasted several hours.

Among the 31 Maoists killed, authorities believe some were senior cadres involved in planning major attacks against security forces. Weapons, ammunition, and Maoist literature were recovered from the site. However, the search operation is still underway, as officials suspect some insurgents may have escaped into the dense forest.

This latest clash highlights the ongoing conflict between Maoist rebels and security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, a hotbed of left-wing extremism for decades. While security forces have intensified operations to dismantle Maoist networks, the insurgents continue to pose a significant challenge, frequently launching surprise attacks on security personnel and government infrastructure.

Officials have reiterated their commitment to weakening Maoist strongholds and ensuring safety in the affected regions. Meanwhile, local communities remain caught in the crossfire, with residents often fearing retaliation from both security forces and insurgents. The government has vowed to continue efforts not just through military action but also by improving development initiatives and strengthening local governance in these conflict-ridden areas.

With tensions still high, authorities remain vigilant, prepared for further encounters as they push forward in their fight against Maoist extremism in Chhattisgarh.