IN WHAT has been described as a turning point in the fight against Left Wing Extremism, the Bastar Police recorded major operational successes in 2025, delivering decisive blows to Maoist networks and significantly shrinking their areas of influence. Addressing the annual press conference at Shaurya Bhavan, Lalbagh, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P, said the year proved historic for security forces and laid a strong foundation for the complete elimination of Maoism from the region.

 

The IG informed that during 2025, security forces were involved in 100 encounters with Maoists, in which 256 extremists were neutralised. Besides, 898 Maoists were arrested and 1,573 surrendered, reflecting the impact of sustained and intelligence-driven operations. During these actions, forces recovered 677 weapons and seized 894 improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Acknowledging the role of the Bastar Police, the IG said the force received extensive support, resources and logistical backing from the Chhattisgarh Government.

 

He described 2026 as another crucial year, asserting that efforts would be intensified to wipe out the remaining Maoist presence. He also appealed to Maoists to surrender, stating that time was running out for them. The IG noted that Maoist-affected areas in Bastar have reduced substantially due to continuous operations, leading to a growing number of voluntary surrenders.

 

He paid homage to the fallen, stating that Maoists killed 46 civilians in 2025, while 23 police personnel laid down their lives during encounters. Despite these sacrifices, he underlined, Maoists failed to loot even a single weapon from the security forces. A solemn tribute was paid to the martyred jawans. Highlighting the strengthening of the security grid, the IG said 58 new security camps were established during the year — 22 in Bijapur, 24 in Narayanpur and 12 in Sukma — ensuring complete security coverage across the Bastar division.

 

Calling it a major achievement, he said 210 armed Maoists surrendered at the Jagdalpur Police Headquarters alone. He also acknowledged the support of security forces from neighbouring states and the cooperation of local residents, noting that people have increasingly rejected Maoist propaganda related to water, forest and land issues.

 

Sharing general crime statistics, the IG said that in 2025 the Bastar division recorded 156 murder cases, 170 attempted murders, 19 robberies, 294 rape cases, 267 kidnappings, one dowry death and 782 road accident fatalities. He assured that focused efforts are underway to curb crimes against women and reduce road accidents across the region.