Chhattisgarh CM Praises Security Forces for Major Win Against Naxalism in Gariaband Encounter
In Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai gave a big shoutout to security forces on Friday for their strong fight against Naxalism. He highlighted how the Central security forces and Chhattisgarh Police have shown real courage under his government’s watch.
CM Sai specifically praised the teams involved in Thursday’s intense encounter in Gariaband district. "Since our government took charge 20 months ago, our brave forces have been tackling Naxalism head-on. Operations like this keep delivering results. The Gariaband encounter yesterday was a huge success—I salute their bravery," he told reporters.
The encounter proved to be a game-changer. Security forces took down 10 Naxals, including top commander Manoj alias Modem Balkrishna, a key Central Committee member. This joint operation involved CRPF Cobra commandos, Chhattisgarh Police, and the District Reserve Guard (DRG). Balkrishna had a whopping ₹1 crore bounty on his head, making this a major blow to Naxal activities in Chhattisgarh.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also jumped in to celebrate the victory. On Thursday, he posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Our security forces scored another big win against Naxalites today. In Chhattisgarh, CRPF Cobra commandos, Chhattisgarh Police, and DRG eliminated 10 notorious Naxals, including CCM Modem Balakrishna alias Manoj. The rest should surrender now. We’ll wipe out red terror completely by March 31, 2026."
Shah reaffirmed the Central government’s firm commitment to end Naxalism in Chhattisgarh by that deadline. He urged remaining Naxals to lay down arms and join the mainstream.
Earlier on Thursday, Inspector General (IG) Raipur Range Amresh Mishra shared updates from the spot. "An encounter is ongoing between security forces and Naxals in Gariaband, with bursts of firing. Several Naxals seem to be down," he said.
This success comes on the heels of positive developments in the state. Just recently, 30 Naxals surrendered in Bijapur district in the Bastar region and started their rehabilitation journey. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma called it a win for the state government’s rehab policy, the hard work of security forces, and ongoing development projects. "This shows Naxals can leave violence behind and build better lives. I urge more to come forward and join the mainstream," he added.
These efforts highlight Chhattisgarh’s push to curb Naxalism through operations, surrenders, and growth. As the state battles Maoist threats, such victories bring hope for a safer future.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.