The Security forces in Chhattisgarh launched a major operation against Naxals, eventually eliminating 31 of them. The encounter took place in the Bastar region on Friday. With this operation, the total number of Naxals eliminated in 2024 has reached 185. Since the state's formation 24 years ago, this operation has resulted in the greatest number of Maoist deaths in a single action.

The clash followed the killings of 29 Naxalites, including senior cadres, in Kanker district by security forces that took place over five months ago.

Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P said that during the gunfight that broke out at 1 pm in the forest between Thulthuli and Nendur villages along the Narayanpur-Dantewada border, one jawan from the state's District Reserve Guard (DRG) was hurt by a grenade shell.

Personnel from the DRG, Special Task Force (STF), and other units participated in the joint operation. It was initiated on Thursday following intelligence reports indicating the presence of Maoist leaders in the area, including senior cadres Neeti, Nandu, and Suresh Salam and DKSZC member Kamlesh.

Maoist organisations like Platoon 16, PLGA Company No. 6, and the Indravati Area Committee are known to have strongholds in the region. Reports suggest that more Maoists may have been killed; thus far, 31 bodies have been found.

A cache of weapons, including an AK-47, an SLR, an INSAS rifle, an LMG, and a.303 rifle, was also taken by security personnel. Vishnu Deo Sai, the chief minister, pledged to keep up the fight against Naxalism and commended the security forces for their bravery.

In several operations throughout the Bastar region—which includes districts like Dantewada and Narayanpur—185 Maoists were killed since the start of this year. By March 2026, according to statements made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, India aims to be free of left-wing extremism.