Naxals blow up security forces' vehicle with IED; 9 jawans killed

At least nine people, including eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and their driver, were killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast carried out by Naxals in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, on Monday. The victims were returning from a joint anti-Naxal operation involving forces from Dantewada, Narayanpur, and Bijapur districts when the incident occurred.

According to Bastar IG, the attack was a targeted attempt to counter the intensified crackdown on Naxals by security forces. "It was a cowardly attack reflecting their desperation. The loss of these brave jawans will not be forgotten," he said.

This incident comes on the heels of a major encounter in Bastar just days ago, where security forces killed five Naxals, including high-ranking members. In the same operation, a DRG head constable lost his life in the line of duty.

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao strongly condemned the attack, calling it an act of desperation. He expressed his condolences to the families of the jawans and assured them that their sacrifices would not go in vain. "Our jawans are dedicated to eliminating Naxalism, and such attacks will only strengthen our resolve," he stated.

Former Chief Minister and current Assembly Speaker Raman Singh echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized that while such incidents are tragic, they are a sign of the pressure being exerted on Naxals by ongoing security operations. He reiterated the government's commitment to eradicating the Naxal menace.