Sukma (Chhattisgarh), March 29: An intense encounter is underway between security forces and Naxals in the Kerlapal area of Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday. The gunfight erupted following a joint anti-Naxal operation launched by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Friday. The operation was initiated based on intelligence inputs regarding Naxal presence in the Kerlapal area under Sukma police station limits.

Security forces commenced their search operation on March 28, and intermittent firing has continued since early morning on March 29. Currently, forces are conducting an extensive search of the encounter site and surrounding forested areas. Officials stated that a detailed briefing would be provided after the operation concludes.

Sukma, situated in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, is one of the worst-affected districts in terms of Naxal violence, with frequent attacks reported in the past. Meanwhile, on Friday, a jawan sustained injuries in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast triggered by Naxalites in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district. According to Bastar Inspector General Sundarraj P, “One jawan was injured in an IED explosion planted by Maoists near Bedmakoti. He was rushed to the District Hospital in Narayanpur for medical treatment.” Following initial medical attention, the injured soldier’s condition stabilized. Security forces continue to monitor the situation closely, with further updates expected after the ongoing operations reach a conclusion.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.