CRPF Sub-Inspector Killed, Constable Injured In Chhattisgarh Naxal Encounter

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) sub-inspector was killed and a constable injured during a confrontation with Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 17 December 2023 3:45 pm

The CRPF is the lead anti-Naxal operations force of the country.

In a tragic turn of events, a sub-inspector from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) lost his life, and a constable sustained injuries during a confrontation between security forces and Naxalites in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, on Sunday, as reported by PTI.

This recent incident marks the third fatality and seventh injury among security personnel in the Bastar division this month, all related to different Naxal incidents. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai responded promptly, chairing a high-level meeting to address the escalating situation. In the meeting, he emphasized the need to expedite anti-Naxal operations, stating the state government's determination to eradicate Naxalism with the support of the Centre.

The fatal encounter occurred during an anti-Naxal operation conducted by the CRPF's 165th battalion in the Jagargunda police station area. Sub-Inspector Sudhakar Reddy lost his life, and Constable Ramu sustained bullet injuries during the exchange of fire. Four suspects were apprehended after the gunfire ceased. The injured constable was swiftly transported to a hospital for treatment.

Expressing his condolences, CM Sai reiterated the government's commitment to eliminating Naxalism through a multifaceted approach, including development initiatives in affected areas. He highlighted the importance of winning the people's confidence and directed officials to extend support to the families of the martyred personnel.

The meeting, attended by Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, Director General of Police Ashok Juneja, and other senior officials, focused on strategies to enhance security and counter Naxal activities effectively.

This incident adds to the toll of three security personnel deaths and seven injuries since December 2 in the Bastar region, encompassing districts such as Kanker, Kondgaon, Narayanpur, Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, and Bijapur. On December 14, a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan lost his life in a Naxal-triggered blast in Kanker district, while a Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) jawan succumbed to a Naxal attack in Narayanpur district on December 13.