Three Maoists Killed in Sukma Encounter as Security Forces Intensify Anti-Insurgency Push

Raipur, November 16, 2025: Three Maoists, including two women, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the dense forests of Tumalpad in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district on Sunday, officials said. The clash began after security personnel launched an operation based on intelligence inputs about Maoist movement in the area.

Sukma superintendent of police Kiran Chavan said the exchange of fire continued intermittently before the bodies of the three Maoists were recovered. Security forces also seized a .303 rifle, Barrel Grenade Launchers, explosives, and other weapons from the site.

The deceased were identified as Madvi Deva, Podiam Gangi, and Sodhi Gangi, each carrying a reward of ₹5 lakh. Police described Deva as a sniper specialist suspected of involvement in multiple civilian killings. A search operation has been launched in the surrounding forest areas to trace other members of the group.

Inspector general (Bastar range) Sundarraj Pattilingam said Maoist activity in the region has entered its “final stage” and urged remaining cadres to surrender and join the government’s rehabilitation programme.

So far this year, security forces have eliminated 262 Maoists in Chhattisgarh, while nearly 300 others surrendered last month. In a related development, senior Maoist leader Mallojula Venugopal Rao, also known as Bhupathi, along with 60 associates, surrendered in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district.

The Union government has reaffirmed its goal of ending Maoist insurgency nationwide by March 2026.