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A senior Maoist leader, Jayaram Reddy, also known as Chalapati, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district. Chalapati, who carried a bounty of Rs 1 crore, was among 20 Maoists killed in the operation.

 

The joint operation involved security forces from Chhattisgarh’s District Reserve Guard (DRG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), CoBRA, and Odisha’s Special Operation Group (SOG). It took place in the Kularighat reserve forest, close to the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border.

Based on intelligence reports about Maoist activity in the area, the forces launched the mission. A significant amount of weapons, ammunition, and explosives, including a self-loading rifle, were recovered. A thorough search is ongoing in the region.

Amit Shah and Vishnu Deo Sai react

Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the operation, calling it a “major success” in the fight against Naxalism. Shah reiterated his commitment to eradicating Maoists by March 2026, stating, “This is another mighty blow to Naxalism.”

Another mighty blow to Naxalism. Our security forces achieved major success towards building a Naxal-free Bharat. The CRPF, SoG Odisha, and Chhattisgarh Police neutralised 14 Naxalites in a joint operation along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border. With our resolve for a Naxal-free…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) January 21, 2025

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also commended the security forces, emphasizing that the state is moving closer to becoming Maoist-free. He attributed the success to the efforts of the "double-engine government" (BJP governments at both state and central levels).

 

Also Read: Security forces eliminate 16 Naxals in Chhattisgarh

Who was Chalapati?

Chalapati, originally from Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district, was a key member of the Maoist central committee. Known for operating in the dense forests of Bastar, he moved closer to the Odisha border recently due to increased operations in Abujhmad, Chhattisgarh.

At around 60 years old, Chalapati played a critical role in planning and leading Maoist operations. He was considered a high-value target and was protected by a group of 8-10 guards.

Maoist activity in 2024

Chhattisgarh security forces have intensified their actions against Maoists. In 2024:

• Over 200 Maoists were killed, with most incidents occurring in the Bastar region.
• Around 800 Maoists were arrested, and over 800 surrendered.
• 18 security personnel and 65 civilians lost their lives in Maoist-related violence.

The government and security forces continue their efforts to end Naxalism in the region.

 

Also Read: Who was Chalapati, the Maoist with ₹1 crore bounty?