‘Maoists retreated to Karreguttalu Hills… They never thought we’d negotiate so many IEDs’: Inside the op that killed 31 Naxals
In a major counter-insurgency breakthrough, security forces neutralized 31 Maoists in the restive Bijapur-Security forces recently eliminated 31 Maoists in a landmark operation in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur-Dantewada border area. This mission marked one of the most decisive blows to the outlawed CPI (Maoist) in recent years. It also highlighted the growing tactical strength of India’s counter-insurgency units.
Karreguttalu Hills: Once a Maoist Bastion
The Karreguttalu Hills had long served as a Maoist stronghold. Its steep terrain, thick forests, and remote location made access nearly impossible. For years, Maoist fighters planted hundreds of IEDs across the region. They relied on these traps to prevent any large movement of security forces.
However, the forces surprised them this time. “They never thought we’d negotiate so many IEDs,” said an officer involved in the mission.
Weeks of Planning and Covert Movement
The operation wasn’t spontaneous. It began with weeks of surveillance and ground-level intelligence gathering. Teams studied satellite images and tracked movement through local informants.
Once intel confirmed the presence of top Maoist commanders, the forces moved in. Over 400 personnel, including DRG, STF, CoBRA commandos, and CRPF, silently advanced at night. They avoided main trails and followed safer forest paths.
The Encounter: Swift and Strategic
At dawn, the units surrounded the Maoist camps. A fierce gun battle erupted. Security teams flanked the Maoists from multiple directions. The rebels, caught by surprise, failed to regroup effectively.
The rugged hills limited their escape routes. Ironically, many tried to flee through areas they had rigged with IEDs. The security forces held their ground and suffered no major injuries.
High-Value Targets Among the Dead
The operation claimed the lives of several senior Maoist leaders. These included area commanders and members of the military wing. Some carried large bounties on their heads.
Teams recovered automatic weapons, IEDs, radios, and propaganda material from the site. The success also disrupted communication lines between Maoist units.
Evolving Tactics of the Security Forces
This operation reflects a larger shift in counter-Naxal strategies. Forces now rely on drones, heat sensors, and encrypted radios. They avoid predictable routes and work with local intelligence teams.
Drone surveillance helped locate hidden Maoist camps and identify potential IED zones. Ground troops then used alternate routes to approach without alerting the rebels.
A Major Blow to Maoist Influence
The loss of key leaders and foot soldiers has weakened Maoist control in the region. The breach of Karreguttalu Hills—once seen as impenetrable—shows a shift in power.
Analysts say this could create a temporary leadership vacuum. It may also offer a window for development and outreach in tribal villages that remained isolated for years.
Government and Public Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the forces for their bravery. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also applauded the well-coordinated action.
Tribal communities living nearby expressed hope for long-term peace. However, activists urged the government to focus on roads, schools, and health services in the area.
The Road Ahead: Peace With Development
While this mission dealt a heavy blow to the Maoists, officials remain cautious. The ideology still has roots in neglected areas. Experts stress the need for a mix of strong security and social welfare.
By winning trust and improving lives, the government can weaken Maoist influence further. Consistent efforts are key to lasting peace.
Conclusion
The Karreguttalu Hills operation showed that strategy and precision can overcome even the deadliest traps. By outsmarting IED networks and eliminating 31 Maoists, India’s forces proved their evolving capabilities. As Maoist strongholds fall, the focus must now turn to building trust and stability in affected regions.
