SUKMA, Apr 1 IN a landmark development marking the end of decades-long insurgency, Sukma district in Chhattisgarh has officially been declared Naxal-free, with authorities confirming that the target was achieved on March 31, this year, within the stipulated timeframe. The achievement came after years of sustained operations by security forces and the supreme sacrifice of 399 personnel belonging to DRG, DEF, STF, CoBRA and CRPF units. Officials described the milestone as a “historic turning point” in restoring peace and development in one of the country’s most insurgency-affected regions. According to official data, Sukma witnessed 469 encounters and 142 IED blast incidents between 1980 and March 31, 2026. During this period, 399 personnel lost their lives, while approximately 550 were injured. Detailed records further indicate that 373 personnel were martyred and about 547 injured in major Maoist-related incidents. The origins of Naxal violence in Sukma date back to 1989, when armed Maoists attacked an SAF camp in the Golapalli police station area with the intent to loot weapons. Over the years, the district saw a series of deadly ambushes, landmine blasts and encounters.

 

Among the most severe incidents was the April 6, 2010 attack at Tadmetla, in which 76 personnel were martyred, making it one of the deadliest strikes in the region. Other major incidents included the 2010 Chingavaram bus blast, which killed 16 personnel and 15 civilians and the 2017 Burkapal-Chintagufa attack, where 25 CRPF personnel lost their lives. Violence persisted in subsequent years, including the Minpa attack in 2020 (17 personnel martyred), Tekalgudem in 2021 (22 martyred), and smaller but significant incidents in 2023 and 2024, each claiming three personnel. In 2025, Additional Superintendent of Police Akash Rao Girepunje was killed in an IED blast while responding to an arson-related incident. Despite operating in extremely challenging conditions, including dense forests, difficult terrain, frequent ambushes and IED threats, security forces maintained sustained pressure on Maoist groups. Their coordinated efforts have now resulted in the complete restoration of administrative control across the district. The Sukma District Police paid tribute to the martyrs, stating that the achievement exhibits their courage, dedication and sacrifice. “The sacrifice of the martyrs forms the foundation of a Naxal-free Sukma,” officials said, adding that their legacy would continue to inspire the nation.