‘Ending Naxalism would be fitting tribute’: Family remembers police officer killed in IED blast as ‘strongest pillar’

Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh — June 11, 2025:
The heart of a family in Rajnandgaon now beats a little slower after the loss of Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Mahendra Singh, who died in a brutal IED blast allegedly triggered by Naxal insurgents. His family, while mourning his death, says the true tribute to his sacrifice would be the complete eradication of Naxalism from Indian soil.

Mahendra Singh, 47, was a pillar of strength not just for his household, but also for the Chhattisgarh Police force. For over two decades, he stood on the frontline of the state’s battle against Left-Wing Extremism. Unfortunately, during a recent operation in Kanker district, fate turned cruel. While part of a Road Opening Party (ROP) ensuring safe passage for security personnel, Singh lost his life when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near the Binagunda forest region.

A Brave Life Marked by Duty

Singh wasn’t new to danger. He had spent years navigating the risks of the insurgency-hit Bastar region, often volunteering for field duty despite repeated offers for desk postings. Colleagues admired his dedication, and his name became synonymous with courage under fire.

“He always led from the front,” said Devendra Thakur, a fellow officer. “Whenever we went out, we felt safer knowing Mahendra sir was with us.”

Although Singh often operated in volatile zones, he maintained a calm and composed demeanor. His commanding officers relied heavily on his experience, particularly during tense situations. He had even helped defuse several minor ambushes in the past through quick thinking and teamwork.

A Personal Loss Felt Across the Community

At his residence, the weight of his absence is unmistakable. Sunita Singh, his wife, struggles to hold back tears as she recalls the last phone call they shared. “He told me not to worry, that he would be home soon. I didn’t know it would be the last time I’d hear his voice.”

Their teenage son Aman, who recently finished his board exams, echoed her pain. “He used to tell me that true strength lies in serving others. I want to follow his path—maybe not in uniform, but in spirit.”

Even neighbors, many of whom grew up with Singh, gathered at his home, remembering a man who was both fierce in duty and gentle in everyday life. During festivals, he arranged small community events. On Sundays, he volunteered to teach math to local children.

From Family to State: A Demand for Action

Though the family appreciated the state’s condolences and financial assistance, they emphasized that true justice lies beyond ceremonial tributes. “Compensation helps, but what we really want is for no other family to suffer like this again,” said Singh’s elder brother Rajendra. “We need a focused plan to end this violence permanently.”

His sentiments were mirrored by local civil society members, many of whom have repeatedly called for increased intelligence, better protective gear for officers, and strategic long-term policy reform in Naxal-hit areas.

“Mahendra’s sacrifice should spark a serious overhaul,” stated human rights activist Arti Deshmukh. “Let’s not allow his death to be another data point.”

State Honors and Words of Assurance

In response to the tragedy, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited the Singh family and attended the funeral with senior police officials. He assured the family of continued state support and reiterated his government’s firm stance against extremism.

“We stand with the family not just today, but in the years to come,” the CM said during a press briefing. “ASI Singh’s sacrifice will strengthen our resolve to eliminate this threat once and for all.”

Additionally, Director General of Police Ashok Juneja described Singh as one of the most dependable field officers the department had. “His sense of duty, humility, and leadership made him an asset. We won’t forget his service.”

Naxalism: A Lingering Threat

Despite efforts to reduce Naxal influence in the region, pockets of resistance remain, especially in dense forest areas across Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha. Experts say that while security operations have limited the geographical scope of the insurgency, attacks like these show the rebels remain dangerous.

Retired CRPF commander Arvind Rawat explained, “IEDs are cheap, easily concealed, and deadly. Insurgents rely on them because they avoid direct combat. It’s a tactic rooted in desperation, but it still costs lives.”

Singh’s death brings back into focus the risks security personnel face daily in the Red Corridor. It also reignites the debate around resource allocation, training, and the pace of developmental efforts in tribal regions.

A Legacy Worth Upholding

Singh’s story is not just one of duty—it’s one of quiet heroism. In a world where headlines often forget the names of the fallen, his family wants to ensure that Mahendra Singh’s life becomes a symbol of resilience and reform.

“We won’t let his name fade into a file,” said Sunita. “We’ll continue to speak, to push, and to remind the country that his sacrifice deserves more than sympathy—it demands change.”

As his body was laid to rest with full state honors, chants of “Shaheed Mahendra Singh Amar Rahein” filled the air. In that moment, amid tears and salutes, a community made a silent vow—to not let his death be in vain.