Mumbai, April 3: Sukma district in Chhattisgarh has been officially declared completely Naxal-free. Once considered a stronghold of Maoist violence, this area has seen a significant transformation due to the relentless efforts of security forces, strategic planning, and community cooperation. The formal announcement was made by the district police on March 31, 2026, marking the end of Naxalite activities that have persisted since the 1980s.
Established in 2012, Sukma was previously under the influence of Maoists. Despite challenges such as dense forests, hilly terrain, and adverse weather, security forces including the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Cobra units collaborated effectively. The personnel displayed remarkable courage and patience while executing several major operations. New strategies included setting up camps in the region, constructing roads, and winning the trust of local residents.
Between January 2024 and March 31, 2026, security forces achieved significant success in 38 encounters, resulting in the deaths of 84 Naxals, all of whom had bounties on their heads. Additionally, 478 Naxals were arrested, and 743 chose to surrender and reintegrate into society. The forces also seized 198 graded weapons and 137 IEDs, indicating a substantial decline in the strength of the Maoist organization.
To strengthen their presence, security forces established 23 new camps in areas ranging from the remote Gogunda hills to the previously secure hideouts of Paliguda-Gundrajgudem. This camp establishment not only enhanced security but also accelerated development projects. Improvements in road construction, education, and healthcare have fostered increased trust among local communities towards the security forces.
Several key operations played a decisive role in this success. On January 3, 2026, a DRG team conducted an operation in the Burklenka forest of the Kistaram police station area. They bravely faced an ambush from approximately 30-35 armed Maoists for three hours, resulting in the death of 12 Naxals, including significant leaders with bounties totaling 6 million rupees. Weapons such as AK-47s, SLRs, and INSAS rifles were recovered from the site.
On March 29, 2025, an attack occurred on a DRG and CRPF team in the Nedum-Pariya forest of the Kerla Pal police station. The soldiers bravely retaliated, killing 17 Naxals, including SGCM Jagdish Kuharami, with bounties amounting to 8.7 million rupees. Four soldiers were injured but remained steadfast.
On November 22, 2024, 10 Naxals were killed in the Bhandarpadar-Munurakonda forest, including platoon commander Dudi Masa. On January 10, 2025, three hardcore Naxals, including IED expert Korsa Mahesh, were eliminated in Paliguda-Gundrajgudem. A large-scale operation on January 16, 2025, resulted in the death of 12 Naxals, delivering a heavy blow to the Maoist network.
The surrender policy and rehabilitation programs also played a crucial role, with thousands of Naxals returning to the mainstream and engaging with government initiatives. Community participation has led to increased development, with schools, hospitals, and roads improving the quality of life for residents.
The declaration of Sukma as Naxal-free is a testament to the dedication of security forces, accurate intelligence, and sustained pressure. This achievement serves as a model for the entire Bastar region. A new era of peace and development has begun here, with district police assuring that efforts to maintain peace will continue.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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