In a significant development in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district, twelve active Maoists surrendered before Superintendent of Police Robinson Guria on Wednesday, marking a major success for the ongoing Maoists eradication campaign. Among those who laid down arms were two area committee members, considered key figures in the insurgent network.

The total bounty on the surrendered individuals exceeded Rs 18 lakh, underscoring the importance of this breakthrough. “Of them, five are female and seven are male Maoists,” Guria said. The surrender is being seen as a direct result of the government’s robust rehabilitation policy, which has been actively encouraging Maoists to return to mainstream society.

Officials confirmed that the group included members from various wings of the Naxal organisation, such as LOS-CNM, PPCM, Military Latoon, and Jantana Sarkar. Their decision to surrender reflects growing disillusionment within the ranks and increasing faith in the state’s reintegration efforts. Superintendent of Police Robinson Guria, who accepted the surrender, said that the move would not only weaken the operational strength of Maoist groups in the region but also send a strong message to others still engaged in armed rebellion.

The state government had previously announced rewards totalling over Rs 18 lakh on their heads, which will now be nullified following their surrender. This event comes amid a broader national push to eliminate Naxalism. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has set March 2026 as the deadline for the complete eradication of the movement.

The numbers reflect steady progress; in 2024, a total of 928 Maoists surrendered, and in the first four months of 2025 alone, 718 have already laid down arms. Additionally, more than 241 Maoists have been killed in security operations this year. The Narayanpur surrender is being hailed as a morale booster for security forces and a validation of the government’s dual strategy of firm military action combined with inclusive rehabilitation.

As the deadline for eliminating Naxalism approaches, such developments are expected to accelerate, bringing hope for lasting peace and stability in affected regions. With continued efforts and community engagement, the vision of a Naxal-free India is steadily becoming a reality—one surrender at a time.

-IANS

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In a dramatic development, the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) has declared a temporary suspension of its armed struggle for a month and expressed readiness to engage in conditional peace talks with the central government.

The Maoists, in their statement, appealed to the government to convey its decision on the issue through the internet and government news channels. The press note also included a Facebook and email ID for senior cadres lodged in jails across the country to share their views.

Speaking to TOI, Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma said the authenticity of the letter needed to be verified. He pointed out that it was the first time a Maoist note carried a picture of the spokesperson, had a different writing style, and even mentioned an email ID. Sharma described the use of the term “ceasefire” as highly objectionable, stating there was no war that required such a term. He added that in a democracy there could not be “conditional” talks and noted that Maoists had once again put forward conditions as in the past. He said that after verifying the press note, the government would deliberate internally before making a decision.

Sharma further underlined that although the ceasefire letter was dated August 15, Maoists had since then killed villagers and planted IEDs that injured security personnel. He reiterated that the best option for Maoists would be to surrender, avail themselves of the rehabilitation policy, and contribute to nation-building even by participating in political life if they so wished.

Last year, Minister Sharma had initiated an appeal for peace talks in an exclusive interview with TOI, inviting the Maoists to a dialogue through a platform of their choice, whether by video call, personal meeting, or phone conversation.

The latest Maoist statement, issued by central committee spokesperson ‘Abhay’ and dated 15 August 2025, carried a clarification that its release was delayed due to certain reasons. It was circulated on Tuesday in the insurgency-hit Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. While in April this year the Maoists had spoken of a ceasefire and peace talks under conducive conditions, this marks the first time the outfit has formally declared a ceasefire at the national level.

The two-page statement signed by Abhay said the organisation would now focus on “mass struggles” to address the problems of India’s oppressed sections instead of continuing armed confrontation. The Maoists claimed that since late March 2025 they had been making “serious and sincere efforts” to initiate peace talks. On 10 May 2025, then general secretary Basavaraju who was killed later that month in an encounter in Bastar, had proposed a one-month ceasefire to enable senior leaders to deliberate on laying down arms.

However, the note said the government had not responded positively and instead intensified “encirclement and elimination” operations launched since January 2024, with thousands of armed police deployed in Maoist strongholds.

The Maoists cited the deadly encounter in Chhattisgarh’s Marh region on 21 May 2025, in which Basavaraju, along with 28 central committee members and security staff, was killed. They said the present peace initiative was a continuation of the process begun by their slain leader.

Declaring their changed stance, the Maoists said they would now align “shoulder to shoulder with all political parties and protesting organisations” on public issues. “We have decided to lay down arms and declare a temporary ceasefire,” the release stated, adding that the party was prepared to hold talks with the Union Home Minister or his designated representatives.

The CPI (Maoist) explained that its decision was influenced by changing national and global conditions, along with repeated appeals by top government leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, urging them to join the mainstream.

Conditions for Dialogue

The Maoists asked the government to formally announce a one-month ceasefire and suspend combing operations so that they could consult cadres across different states and those imprisoned. They also said they were ready for preliminary discussions with the government through a video call.

The statement requested that any official announcements on peace talks be broadcast via government radio and television channels so that cadres in remote forested areas without internet access could be informed.

Appeals to the Public

The Maoists appealed to labourers, Dalits, Adivasis, women, minorities, intellectuals, human rights defenders, writers, artists, and peace committees to appreciate the “very difficult circumstances” behind their decision and extend support to the peace process.

“We hope you will wholeheartedly cooperate in taking this process forward and help transform blood-soaked forests into forests of peace,” the statement read. They also shared an email address and a Facebook ID for sympathisers, supporters, and organisations to send their views.

The Maoist outfit has occasionally expressed readiness for talks in the past, in Andhra Pradesh in 2004 and West Bengal in 2010, but those efforts collapsed amid violence, conditions, and mistrust.

Bastar Range Inspector General of Police P. Sundarraj told TOI that they had taken note of the press release issued in the name of the CPI (Maoist) Central Committee. He said the authenticity of the document was being verified and its contents carefully examined. He added that any decision on engaging or opening dialogue with the Maoists rested with the government, which would take an appropriate call after due consideration of the situation.

(With inputs from Times of India)

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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, Durg, seeking an inquiry into a case where a government-aided missionary school principal allegedly beat a three-and-a-half-year-old girl and taped her mouth shut for greeting her with the words “Radhe Radhe” instead of “Good Morning.”

Mother Teresa school's Principal put tape on nursery class baby girl just for greeting with Radhe Radhe.

Now Priyanka Gandhi won't speak like she did in case of Nun detained? pic.twitter.com/Whm3lbIHMB

— Ankur Singh (@iAnkurSingh) August 1, 2025

The incident occurred on 30 July 2025 at Mother Teresa English Medium School in Bagdumar village, Nandini area of Durg district. According to police, principal Ila Evan Colvin entered the nursery classroom during an inspection when the child, described as shy and quiet, greeted her with “Radhe Radhe.” Colvin allegedly struck the girl’s wrist with a stick and sealed her mouth with tape for about 15 minutes. The tape was reportedly removed by the class teacher.

The girl’s father, Praveen Yadav, said his daughter returned home shaken, pressing her finger to her lips, and later recounted the assault. She also showed injury marks on her hand. Yadav approached the village sarpanch, Damini Sahu, before filing a complaint at the Nandini Nagar police station.

Police registered a case under Sections 115(2) and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, which covers cruelty to children and outraging religious feelings. Colvin was arrested on Wednesday but released on bail the same day.

Yadav alleged that only mild sections were applied in the FIR and expressed shock that the principal resumed her duties at the school the very next day. Fearing further trauma, he withdrew his daughter from the school.

The incident triggered local outrage, with Bajrang Dal workers visiting the police station to demand strict action.

Following a complaint filed by Swati Goel Sharma, editor of Rashtra Jyoti, NHRC Chairperson Priyank Kanoongo took cognisance of the matter, stating there were prima facie “serious violations of the human rights of the victim and the provisions of the RTE Act, 2009.”

The NHRC has directed the DM and SP to:

• Conduct a detailed inquiry and submit an Action Taken Report within two weeks.
• Facilitate the girl’s admission to a school of her parents’ choice, including under Section 12(1)(c) of the RTE Act if she falls under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category.
• Provide the child with psychological counselling and ensure safe school access.

The girl’s family belongs to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category. Yadav said he will take time off work to secure a new school for his daughter but fears that her involvement in a police case may impact future admissions.

A battery of lawyers reached court to get instant bail for the missionary school principal who beat up and taped the mouth of a Nursery kid for saying Radhe Radhe

The girl’s father – who complained to police – got little support from his village and had to even take his daughter… pic.twitter.com/kXsZx3Obmd

— Swati Goel Sharma (@swati_gs) August 12, 2025

(With inputs from Rashtrajyoti)

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The Kerala Catholic Congress has launched a scathing attack on CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan, condemning his recent remarks against Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany as “thoughtless” and unworthy of a senior political leader.

Govindan was miffed at the Archbishop for praising Union Home Minister Amit Shah after he secured the release of two Christian nuns who had been arrested in Chhattisgarh on false charges. Speaking on behalf of the Kerala Catholic Congress, Fr. Philip Kaviyil reminded Govindan that he occupies a post once held by party stalwart Kodiyeri Balakrishnan.

“It’s up to Govindan to decide whether to retract his statement. But he should also reflect on whether the third Pinarayi Vijayan government should come to power,” Fr. Kaviyil said, adding that even the Chief Minister had earlier reprimanded the party secretary, urging him “not to speak like Govindan Chami.”

The controversy erupted after Govindan branded Pamplany “opportunistic,” claiming the Archbishop had criticised the BJP during the arrest of nuns in Chhattisgarh but later praised Union Home Minister Amit Shah once bail was granted. The Kerala Catholic Congress swiftly countered, accusing Govindan of using rhetoric akin to “fascist forces.”

The Thalassery Archdiocese had already issued a sharp response, questioning whether Bishops were expected to act only under directives from the CPI(M) headquarters at the AKG Centre in the state capital city. In its statement, the Archdiocese reiterated gratitude to the central government for intervening in the Chhattisgarh incident, while slamming the DYFI — the CPI(M)’s youth wing — for issuing “cheap statements.”

It further claimed that Govindan was more deserving of the “opportunistic” label he had used against the Archbishop, cautioning him against using personal shortcomings as a benchmark to judge others. The Archdiocese also warned that Govindan’s remarks were not only tarnishing his personal image but also putting his party and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a politically-awkward position.

With both the Kerala Catholic Congress and the Thalassery Archdiocese openly challenging the CPI(M) state secretary, the row has escalated into a full-blown confrontation between the Church and the ruling Left in Kerala — adding fresh tension to an already charged political atmosphere.

-IANS

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Security forces in Chhattisgarh have scored a major breakthrough with the arrest of a top Maoist commander following a prolonged gun-battle in the dense forests of Khursekala, under Madanwada police station in the newly formed Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district, an official said.

The arrested Maoist, identified as Shrikant Punem, is a senior member of the DVC (Divisional Committee) and commander of the Aundhi-Mohla Joint Area Committee. He carried a bounty of ₹8 lakh on his head and was wanted in multiple cases of armed insurgency and violence across Rajnandgaon division. According to Superintendent of Police Yashpal Singh, the operation was launched based on specific intelligence inputs about Maoist presence in the Khursekala forest.

A joint team comprising the District Reserve Guard (DRG), ITBP’s 44th and 27th battalions, and local police units moved in swiftly and engaged the insurgents in a firefight that lasted several hours. During the encounter, Punem was captured while other Maoists managed to escape under cover of darkness. From the site, security personnel recovered a 9 mm pistol, four live cartridges, two empty shells, a mobile phone, ₹11,000 in cash, and other tactical materials used by the insurgents.

This marks one of the most significant arrests in the region in recent years, especially in the backdrop of heightened Maoist activity in the Rajnandgaon belt. The SP confirmed that no casualties were reported among security personnel, and the operation was conducted with caution to avoid harm to local villagers.

The encounter comes amid renewed efforts by Chhattisgarh Police to dismantle Maoist networks in the state’s northern districts. Officials noted that the insurgents had been planning a major strike, and the timely intervention prevented a possible escalation. The captured commander is now being questioned for further leads on Maoist movements and hideouts in the region. Authorities have intensified combing operations in surrounding forested areas to track down fleeing cadres. This successful operation underscores the growing effectiveness of coordinated anti-Maoist strategies and the importance of actionable intelligence in counterinsurgency efforts.

-IANS

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The arrest of two Catholic nuns from Kerala and a tribal woman in Chhattisgarh on charges related to religious conversion has triggered sharp criticism from the Congress party, which accused the BJP-led government of persecuting minorities.

Sister Preeti Mary and Sister Vandana Francis, both hailing from Kerala, were taken into custody on 25 July 2025, along with Sukaman Mandavi, a tribal woman. The arrests were made at Durg railway station after a Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) flagged the group for not having platform tickets. The women were subsequently booked under Section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for alleged human trafficking and under Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh Religious Freedom Act, 1968, both of which carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison.

A local court has remanded all three in custody for 14 days, with their remand set to expire on 8 August 2025.

Political Reactions and Protests

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the arrests, calling them “a blatant act of persecution against minorities under the BJP-RSS regime.” He further described the incident as an example of “mob rule” and accused the government of systematically targeting Christian missionaries and minority groups.

Between July 25 and July 29, at least 12 Congress leaders publicly came out in support of the detained nuns. These leaders questioned the basis of the FIR, criticized the application of trafficking charges, and demanded immediate accountability from authorities.

The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council also issued a statement on July 27, denouncing the arrests as “baseless and unjustified.” On July 26, families of the tribal women involved stated they had full knowledge of the job placements being arranged, directly contradicting the trafficking allegations leveled by the police.

UDF Protest in Parliament

The United Democratic Front (UDF) staged a protest in Parliament, holding placards that read “Stop attacks on minorities” and “Govt’s silence is violence.” The opposition bloc warned that the arrests were part of a broader pattern of religious intolerance and misuse of legal provisions under the BJP government.

As the remand period continues, rights organizations and Christian groups are also expected to intensify their advocacy demanding the immediate release of the three women.

#1 Rahul Gandhi Condemns Nuns’ Arrest as “Mob Rule”

On 28 July 2025, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi denounced the arrest of two Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh, calling it an act of religious persecution. In a post on X, Gandhi said, “Two Catholic nuns Sister Vandana and Sister Preethi jailed in Chhattisgarh after being targeted for their faith — this isn’t justice, it’s BJP-RSS mob rule.”

He termed the arrests part of a “dangerous pattern” of systematic minority persecution under the current regime. Gandhi added that UDF MPs protested in Parliament and demanded the immediate release of the nuns, stressing that religious freedom is a constitutional right.

Two Catholic nuns jailed in Chhattisgarh after being targeted for their faith – this isn’t justice, it’s BJP-RSS mob rule.

It reflects a dangerous pattern: systematic persecution of minorities under this regime.

UDF MPs protested in Parliament today. We will not be silent.… https://t.co/as67WaLmdV

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 28, 2025

#2 Priyanka Gandhi Slams Arrest of Nuns in Chhattisgarh

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi on 28 July 2025 condemned the arrest of Catholic nuns Sister Vandana and Sister Preethi in Durg, Chhattisgarh, calling it a grave attack on minority rights. She said the detention, based on false allegations of conversion and trafficking, lacked legal basis and reflected a pattern of systematic harassment under BJP rule. Priyanka asserted that mob justice and communal targeting have no place in a democracy and demanded accountability.

I strongly condemn the shocking incident at Durg Railway Station in Chhattisgarh on July 25. The detention of two Christian nuns—Sister Vandanha and Sister Preethi—along with others, without legal basis and on false allegations of conversion and trafficking, is a grave attack on…

— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 28, 2025

#3 AICC Gen Sec Venugopal Slams Arrest of Nuns, Alleges Minority Persecution in BJP Rule

AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal condemned the arrest of two Catholic nuns and Sukaman Mandavi in Chhattisgarh, calling it an instance of minority persecution under BJP rule. He alleged that Bajrang Dal’s mob attack on the nuns had tacit support from the ruling establishment. The FIR, based on trafficking and forced conversion claims, was dismissed by the Chhattisgarh Christian Forum, which asserted the women were adults seeking jobs. Families also denied trafficking claims. Rahul Gandhi and other UDF MPs protested in Parliament, demanding the nuns’ release. BJP leaders defended the action as lawful under anti-conversion and trafficking laws.

#4 Kerala Congress Leader Satheesan Slams ‘Mob Trial’ of Malayali Nuns in Chhattisgarh

Kerala Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan condemned the arrest of two Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh, calling it a “mob trial” under BJP rule. He alleged police persecution and false charges, stating the incident reflects rising religious intolerance. Satheesan also revealed that due to threats, clergy had advised the nuns to avoid wearing religious habits in public. “How terrifying is this?” he asked, adding that persecution in the name of religion or caste is unacceptable. He demanded the immediate release of the arrested nuns and called for accountability from authorities enabling such harassment.

In #BJP-ruled #Chhattisgarh, two Malayali nuns faced mob trial, police persecution & false charges. Amid threats, clergy told them to avoid habits in public. How terrifying is this?

Persecution in the name of religion or caste is unacceptable. Release the arrested nuns now. pic.twitter.com/n17PCIgu9V

— V D Satheesan (@vdsatheesan) July 27, 2025

#5 Benny Behanan, UDF MPs Condemn Arrest of Nuns in Chhattisgarh

Congress MP Benny Behanan, along with UDF MPs Francis George and N.K. Premachandran, condemned the arrest of two Kerala-based Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh, calling it unjust and politically motivated. Behanan said they would visit the jail and meet the nuns before engaging officials to secure their release. BJP Kerala president Rajeev Chandrasekhar also distanced the party from the Bajrang Dal’s actions and asserted the nuns’ innocence, promising justice. Congress leaders accused the Chhattisgarh BJP government of enabling religious persecution. The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council and Kerala Ministers also extended support to the arrested nuns and their families.

#6 Shafi Parambil Slams BJP’s Cake Politics After Nun Arrests

Congress MP Shafi Parambil criticized the BJP’s outreach to Kerala’s Christian community, calling it hypocritical in light of the recent arrest of two Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh. He remarked that while the BJP prepares Christmas cake mixes for bishops, it remains silent on the unjust detention of nuns in religious attire. “This year, when they bring cakes, people will ask questions,” he said, accusing the party of clear double standards. His comments come amid growing political backlash and community outrage over the arrests under alleged trafficking and forced conversion charges.

#7 Francis George Says Nun Arrests Undermine Constitutional Freedoms

Congress leader Francis George condemned the arrest of two Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh, calling it a violation of fundamental rights. He questioned how escorting women for jobs at a Christian convent could be construed as human trafficking. George alleged that the arrests undermined key constitutional guarantees, including freedom of movement and religious freedom. He was part of the opposition delegation that traveled to Raipur to meet the detained nuns and demand their release.

#8 Bhupesh Baghel Protests Denial of Access to Jailed Nuns

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel criticized authorities for initially denying a Kerala MP-MLA delegation access to two arrested nuns in Durg. He warned of a sit-in protest unless the meeting was allowed. The nuns, arrested on July 25 for alleged trafficking and forced conversion, have sparked political outrage. Congress leaders accused the BJP of minority persecution, while CPI leaders were also denied access. Baghel claimed political interference, while Home Minister Vijay Sharma dismissed the allegations, calling them political drama. He said procedural delays, not denial, caused the issue, and that the meeting was later arranged.

#9 Sunny Joseph Slams BJP Over Nun Arrests, Defends Whistleblower Doctor

Congress MLA and KPCC President Sunny Joseph visited the families of the arrested nuns in Kannur and condemned their detention in Chhattisgarh, calling the charges of trafficking and conversion “baseless.” He accused the BJP government of punishing the nuns for helping the poor. Separately, Joseph alleged that the state’s show-cause notice to Dr. Harris Hasan was political vendetta after his exposure of healthcare mismanagement. He criticized the Kerala government for silencing whistleblowers instead of addressing their concerns, calling it an abuse of power and a threat to truth-telling in public service.

#10 K. Suresh Blames Right-Wing for Nun Arrests in Chhattisgarh

Senior Congress MP K. Suresh accused right-wing groups of orchestrating the arrest of two Kerala-based nuns in Chhattisgarh. He alleged that two young women had willingly joined the nuns for work, but Bajrang Dal members falsely claimed it was a conversion attempt and attacked the nuns. “After the assault, the police filed an FIR, and now both the innocent nuns and the girls are in jail,” he said in Delhi. Suresh criticized the BJP-led state government, implying complicity in the incident, and called for immediate action to release the nuns and restore justice.

#11 Congress Leader Alleges Mistreatment of Detained Nuns in Durg

Annie Peter, a Congress leader from Durg, alleged mistreatment of two detained nuns at the Durg police station. She said she rushed to the station on Tuesday morning upon hearing of their detention. “There were a lot of people that morning. In the evening, we learnt that an FIR had been registered. I asked the police to allow me to meet the two nuns. They were unable to speak,” she said. Peter suggested the nuns may have been intimidated or traumatized and criticized the authorities for not ensuring humane treatment during custody.

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A school principal of Mother Teresa English Medium School in Bagdumar village was arrested on Thursday after allegedly beating a three-and-a-half-year-old nursery student and taping her mouth shut for greeting with the words “Radhe Radhe.”

Mother Teresa school's Principal put tape on nursery class baby girl just for greeting with Radhe Radhe.

Now Priyanka Gandhi won't speak like she did in case of Nun detained? pic.twitter.com/Whm3lbIHMB

— Ankur Singh (@iAnkurSingh) August 1, 2025

Police officials said the incident occurred on Wednesday morning when principal Ila Evan Colvin visited the nursery class during an inspection. According to their findings, the student, described as shy and quiet, had greeted the principal with “Radhe-Radhe” instead of “Good Morning.” Colvin allegedly responded by beating the girl’s wrist with a stick and taping her mouth for nearly 15 minutes. The tape was later removed by the class teacher.

The child returned home that afternoon and informed her parents about the incident. Her father, Praveen Yadav, said the girl had visible injury marks and recounted the entire episode. The family initially approached the village head and later filed a complaint at the Nandini Nagar police station.

They did this to A 3-year old. A 3-YEAR OLD!
Chhattisgarh nursery student hit, mouth sealed with tape for 'Radhe Radhe' greeting; principal held at Mother Teresa English Medium School in Bagdumar village. pic.twitter.com/n8eQaF5o67

— Rahul Shivshankar (@RShivshankar) August 1, 2025

Confirming the incident, CSP Harish Patil stated that the police had registered a case under sections 115(2) and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, which deals with cruelty to children and outraging religious feelings.

Police officer Alexander Kiro added that the principal was produced before a magistrate after her arrest. He said the authorities took the matter seriously, especially given the child’s age and the nature of the punishment.

The incident triggered local outrage, with Bajrang Dal workers reportedly visiting the police station to demand action. Police maintained that the law would take its course.

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In a major breakthrough, the Tamil Nadu Police have arrested Sadiq, also known by several aliases including Raja, Tailor Raja, Valarntha Raja, Shahjahan Abdul Majid Makandar, and Shahjahan Shaik – a key accused in the 1998 Coimbatore serial bomb blasts and multiple communal murder cases across the state.

According to a press release issued by the Tamil Nadu Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the arrest was made following specific and credible intelligence inputs. A joint team of the ATS and the Coimbatore City Police apprehended the accused from Vijayapura district in Karnataka. He had been absconding for 29 years and had evaded arrest since 1996.

Sadiq, a native of Coimbatore, is implicated in several terror-related incidents. These include his alleged involvement in the 1998 Coimbatore bomb blasts that killed 58 people and injured over 250, the 1996 petrol bomb attack in Coimbatore that led to the death of Jail Warden Boopalan, the 1996 murder of Sayeetha in Nagore, and the 1997 murder of Jailor Jayaprakash in Madurai.

This arrest follows a recent series of high-profile apprehensions by the Tamil Nadu Police. In recent weeks, the ATS and Coimbatore City Police also arrested Abu Backer Siddique and Mohamed Ali alias Yunus from Annamayya District in Andhra Pradesh, both wanted in connection with terror cases. The arrest of Sadiq alias Tailor Raja marks the third successful capture of long-absconding accused linked to terror operations in a short span of time.

Further investigations are underway.

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Following the demise of an assistant superintendent of police rank official in Chhattisgarh recently in a gun-battle with Maoists, the security forces will not observe monsoon recess during on-going anti-LWE operation. Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division has Sunday resolved to continue their anti-Naxal operations throughout the monsoon season.

The decision was formalised during a high-level strategy review meeting held on Sunday, police sources said. The meeting brought together senior officers from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), and other units engaged in counterinsurgency efforts. Discussions focused on adapting operational logistics to the challenges posed by the monsoon, including difficult terrain, disrupted mobility, and communication hurdles. Deputy Chief Minister and Home Department in-charge Vijay Sharma made the government’s stance unequivocally clear.

“There will be no further dialogue with the Maoists,” he stated. “You either surrender or face decisive action.” This firm declaration signals a significant shift in policy and tone, underscoring the administration’s resolve. Historically, anti-LWE operations saw reduced activity during the monsoon months due to logistical challenges. In a tragic incident in Sukma district’s Kunda region, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Giripunje was martyred in a Maoist-planted IED (improvised explosive device) blast. The explosion also left the SDOP and the officer in charge of the local police station seriously injured. In the aftermath, security agencies have heightened their vigilance, and the government has issued directives for intensified action against the Maoists. Despite seasonal constraints, the campaign against the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist) organisation remains active across all districts of the Bastar division. Sources said the officials emphasised that the rainy season will not deter the security apparatus from maintaining pressure on Maoist strongholds.

“Operations will be recalibrated, not paused,” a senior police officer said, highlighting the use of intelligence-led tactics and community engagement to sustain momentum. The Bastar division, which includes several districts with a history of Maoist activity, has seen intensified operations under the state’s broader counterinsurgency framework. Initiatives like “Lone Varratu” and “Poona Narkom” have already led to significant surrenders and a weakening of Maoist influence in the neighbouring regions. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to a three-pronged strategy of “security, development, and trust-building”.

Officials reiterated that the goal is not only to neutralise armed insurgents but also to restore governance and public confidence in remote tribal areas. With the monsoon approaching, the Bastar division’s security forces appear poised to adapt and persist — rain or shine — in their mission to dismantle the Maoist network and restore lasting peace. As part of this renewed offensive, the state government has transferred nearly a dozen Assistant Superintendents of Police to the LWE-affected regions, reinforcing the operational backbone in conflict-prone districts. Each officer has been entrusted with a clear mandate; to eliminate the Maoists’ threat from their respective areas.

–IANS

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The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a chargesheet against 17 individuals in connection with the January 16, 2024 attacks on Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camps in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district. Among those named, 16 are absconding, while one accused, identified as Sodi Baman alias Deval, is currently in custody.

The chargesheet, submitted before the NIA Special Court in Jagdalpur, invokes multiple provisions of the Indian Penal Code, Arms Act, Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the ace investigation agency said in a statement. The accused include two Central Committee Members, two Special Zonal or State Committee Members, and senior cadres of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion No. 01, Telangana State Committee, and Pamed Area Committee.

The case pertains to coordinated attacks carried out on January 16, 2024 on three CRPF installations: The newly-established Dharmavaram camp and adjacent camps at Chintawagu and Pamed. The attackers, reportedly 250 to 300 armed cadres of the banned CPI (Maoist), used automatic weapons and barrel grenade launchers in an attempt to loot arms and supplies. Twelve CRPF personnel were injured in the assault on the Dharmavaram camp, which had been operational for less than a month.

The NIA took over the investigation from local police on February 9, 2024. According to the agency, the accused were part of a larger conspiracy to wage war against the Indian state. They were allegedly involved in recruiting youth, conducting reconnaissance of the target camps, and establishing a dummy training facility to simulate the attack. The investigation also found that the accused delivered motivational speeches and provided combat training to cadres in preparation for the assault.

The NIA’s findings underscore the continued threat posed by CPI (Maoist) operatives in the region and highlight the group’s efforts to destabilise security infrastructure through coordinated militant actions. Further proceedings in the case are expected to continue in the Jagdalpur court.

-IANS

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The post NIA Files Chargesheet Against 17, Including 16 Absconders In Chhattisgarh CRPF Camps Attack Case appeared first on The Commune.