14 Maoists killed in twin encounters as security forces open 2026 with major anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh

 

• What happened: Fourteen Maoists were killed in two separate encounters with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma and Bijapur districts on January 3, 2026.

• Why it matters now: This marks the first major Maoist encounter of 2026, signalling an aggressive start to counter-insurgency operations in the Bastar region.

• What changes for people: Security forces have intensified search operations, with temporary movement restrictions likely in forested border areas.

• Who is affected: Local communities, security personnel, and Maoist networks operating across south Chhattisgarh.

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Security forces killed 14 Maoists in two coordinated encounters in south Chhattisgarh on Saturday, officials confirmed, underscoring a renewed push against left-wing extremism at the start of 2026.

The operations unfolded in Sukma and neighbouring Bijapur districts, both long considered Maoist strongholds. Authorities said combing operations are still underway, and the toll could change as searches continue.

Sukma encounter targets senior Maoist cadre

According to police officials, the first clash broke out in Sukma’s Kistaram area after security teams moved in based on specific intelligence inputs.

As forces entered dense forest terrain, they came under fire, leading to an exchange that resulted in 12 Maoist deaths. Officials believe those killed include Sachin Mangdu, linked to the Konta Area Committee, considered a senior operational leader.

Police sources also indicated that a Maoist commander allegedly involved in the killing of ASP Akash Girpunje in Konta may have been neutralised during this operation. Formal identification will be completed after teams return from the field, authorities said.

Weapons recovered, Bijapur operation continues

From the Sukma site, forces recovered AK-47 and INSAS rifles, pointing to the presence of well-armed cadres.

In a separate operation in Bijapur district, security personnel killed two Maoists and seized one SLR and a 12-bore firearm, officials confirmed. Search operations in this area are still active.

Why this operation is significant

Senior officers said intelligence suggested the presence of DVCM-level Maoist cadres, indicating a high-level movement or meeting when forces struck.

Chhattisgarh police described the encounters as part of an intensified anti-Naxal campaign in the Bastar region, aimed at dismantling leadership structures rather than only foot soldiers.

Last year alone, 285 Maoists were killed in encounters across the state, reflecting sustained pressure on insurgent networks.

Impact on security and governance

Security analysts say such operations can disrupt Maoist command chains, improve road and infrastructure security, and enable smoother administrative outreach in remote villages.

However, experts caution that long-term stability depends on parallel efforts in development, local governance, and community trust, alongside security action.

Officials urged residents to avoid forested interiors during ongoing searches and assured that civilian safety remains a priority.

What to watch next

• Official identification of those killed and confirmation of senior leaders neutralised.

• Security advisories for travel and movement in Sukma and Bijapur.

• Signals on whether the operation leads to follow-up actions across Bastar in the coming weeks