Malkangiri: After the central government adopted a tough stance on Maoist suppression, the anti-Maoist campaign ‘Operation Kagar’ has been intensified since January across Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand. Nearly 20 battalions of paramilitary forces have been deployed in these states for Maoist eradication efforts.
In particular, Chhattisgarh’s Bastar Maoist Division and the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee are known for heightened Maoist activity, prompting intensified operations in those areas.
Since January, around 28 encounters have taken place, resulting in the elimination of 400 Maoists, including top leaders. After the death of top Maoist leader Chalapathi, the recent killing of Nambala Keshava Rao has dealt a major blow to the Maoist organization. With the loss of these two key figures, it is reported that there’s now a leadership vacuum in the Maoist ranks. The organization may now be led by Hidma, who is expected to take over command.
From January onward, the independent Operation Kagar was launched in Maoist-affected districts of Chhattisgarh such as Bijapur, Dantewada, Narayanpur, Kondagaon, and Sukma. Approximately 7 battalions of police and security forces were deployed in this mission.