In a major blow to Naxalite activity in Madhya Pradesh, security forces gunned down four Naxalites, including three women, in an intense encounter on Saturday afternoon in the Pachama Dadar forest under the Bithli police outpost area. The deceased Naxalites carried a combined bounty of Rs 62 lakh on their heads.
The operation was a coordinated effort involving the Hawk Force, District Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Cobra Commando Unit, and is still ongoing. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of further casualties as search operations continue in the dense forest terrain.
Confirming the development, Superintendent of Police Aditya Mishra said that the bodies of three female Naxalites have been recovered so far. He added that the encounter was launched following specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of Naxal operatives in the region. The operation also led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons and ammunition.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav lauded the efforts of the security forces, calling it a significant success in the fight against Naxalism. He announced that rewards and commendations would be given to the personnel involved in the operation, acknowledging their bravery and dedication.
This marks the second major anti-Naxal operation in Balaghat district in 2025. On February 19, four female Naxalites—Asha, Sheela, Ranjita, and Lakhkhe Maravi—were killed in an encounter near Raunda Forest Camp in the Supkhar forest area. All had been active since 2015–16 and were carrying rewards totaling Rs 62 lakh.
Balaghat district has long been a hotbed of Naxalite activity, with the insurgency persisting for over two decades. However, in recent years, intensified counter-insurgency operations and improved intelligence networks have significantly reduced the influence and presence of Naxal groups in the region.
Security agencies continue to monitor the situation, with forces remaining on high alert to eliminate any remaining Naxalite elements in the area.