Chhattisgarh: 10 Jawans & Driver Martyred In Naxal Attack In Dantewada

Chhattisgarh: 10 Jawans & Driver Martyred in Naxal Attack in Dantewada

On April 26, Naxal insurgents used an improvised explosive device (IED) to carry out a blast that killed 11 people, including 10 security personnel, in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada.

The attack targeted the District Reserve Guard (DRG), a special unit of the Chhattisgarh police that carries out counter-insurgency operations against left-wing extremists. The deceased include 10 jawans from the DRG and a driver attached to the unit.

According to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, the attack took place in the Aranpur police station area of Dantewada, where the security personnel had arrived for an anti-Naxal operation. Baghel expressed his sadness over the loss of life and shared his condolences with the families of the deceased.

Baghel also assured that swift action would be taken against those responsible for the attack. “This fight is in its last stage. Naxals would not be spared,” he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Baghel over the phone and offered all possible assistance from the Centre in the fight against the Naxal insurgents.

Anguished by the cowardly attack on the Chhattisgarh police at Dantewada. Have spoken to Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister and assured all possible assistance to the state government. My condolences to the bereaved family members of the martyred Jawans.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 26, 2023

Naxals, also known as Maoist insurgents, have a presence in central and eastern parts of India. The Dantewada and Bastar regions of Chhattisgarh were considered to be their strongholds. The group claims to be fighting on behalf of the country’s tribal and poorest population, but over the past six decades, they have killed hundreds of security personnel.