New Delhi: In a major blow to Naxalism, 27 Naxalites, including CPI (Maoist) general secretary Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, were killed in a fierce encounter in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district. Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the operation as a historic milestone, reaffirming the goal to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026.
Major Success in Operation Black Forest
The encounter occurred on May 21, 2025, in Abujhmad’s dense forests after intelligence tipped off security forces about senior Maoist cadres. A joint DRG and CRPF team faced heavy gunfire but neutralized 27 Naxalites, including Basavaraju, who carried a ₹1 crore bounty. Operation Black Forest, launched in April 2025, destroyed 214 Naxal hideouts and recovered 450 IEDs.
Amit Shah’s Bold Commitment
Amit Shah called the operation a “landmark achievement,” noting it was the first time a Maoist general secretary was eliminated. He stated, “By March 2026, India will be free of Naxalism.” Since 2024, 287 Naxalites have been killed, 1,000 arrested, and 837 surrendered in Chhattisgarh.
Strategic Impact on Naxal Movement
Basavaraju’s death has disrupted the Maoist hierarchy, with Naxal influence now limited to four Chhattisgarh districts. The government’s strategy of aggressive operations, surrenders, and development has weakened the insurgency, though tribal rights groups raise concerns about human rights violations.
Path to Eradication
Shah’s four-pronged approach—neutralizing leaders, encouraging surrenders, building infrastructure, and integrating tribals—drives the campaign. With states like Bihar and Jharkhand Naxal-free, Chhattisgarh’s Bastar remains the focus, supported by surrender policies offering housing and education.
