Jharkhand Maoist gunfight: two Jawans martyred, one critically injured, CM Hemant expresses deep sorrow

In a tragic incident in Jharkhand’s Palamu district, two Jawans martyred and one critically injured during a fierce gunfight with Maoists in the early hours of September 4, 2025. The encounter took place in the dense Kedal forest under Manatu police station, targeting members of the banned Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC), a splinter group of CPI (Maoist). The operation was launched based on intelligence about the presence of TSPC commander Shashikant Ganjhu, a notorious figure with a Rs 10 lakh bounty on his head. The martyred Jawans identified as Santan Mehta and Sunil Ram, were hailed as heroes, while the injured jawan, Rohit Kumar, is fighting for his life at Medinirai Medical College and Hospital.

The confrontation erupted when security forces, acting on a tip-off about Ganjhu’s possible visit to Kedal village during the Karma festival, moved in to apprehend him. As the police closed in, TSPC members opened indiscriminate fire, leading to a prolonged exchange that claimed two lives. Palamu Superintendent of Police Reeshma Ramesan confirmed the incident, expressing grief and vowing that the sacrifice of the jawans would not be in vain. Security forces have since intensified combing operations in the Kedal-Manatu belt, a known TSPC stronghold, to neutralize the insurgents.

The Kedal-Manatu region has long been a hotbed for Maoist activities, with Shashikant Ganjhu orchestrating extortion and violence across Palamu and Chatra districts. The TSPC, though a splinter group, remains a significant threat, exploiting the dense forests and rugged terrain to evade capture. This encounter underscores the persistent challenge of tackling insurgency in Jharkhand, where security forces face ambushes and hit-and-run tactics. The operation’s failure to apprehend Ganjhu, who escaped with his squad, has raised concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed deep sorrow over the loss, posting on X, “The martyrdom of Santan Mehta Ji and Sunil Ram Ji is extremely painful. May their souls find peace, and their families find strength.” The state has tightened security across Palamu and neighboring districts, with additional forces deployed to prevent further attacks. The injured jawan, Rohit Kumar, is receiving critical care, with authorities ensuring all possible medical support. The incident has reignited discussions on social media about the need for stronger anti-Maoist measures.

This encounter is part of a broader pattern of violence in Jharkhand, where Maoist groups continue to target security forces. Just days ago, similar operations in neighboring states saw Naxalites surrendering, indicating a mixed landscape of resistance and capitulation. The TSPC’s activities, including extortion and attacks on infrastructure, have long plagued the region, disrupting development and instilling fear among locals. The police are now under pressure to deliver results, with ongoing search operations aimed at tracking down Ganjhu and his squad.

The loss of two brave jawans has cast a somber shadow over Palamu, with tributes pouring in for their courage. Palamu DIG Naushad Alam assured that the police remain committed to eliminating extremist elements, but the incident highlights the high risks faced by security personnel in Maoist-affected areas. As the region mourns, the focus is on ensuring justice for the martyred and preventing further violence. The coming weeks will be critical as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle TSPC’s network and restore peace to Jharkhand’s troubled forests.