16 Maoists Killed in Major Operation Megaburu in Jharkhand
Short Description
A significant breakthrough against Maoist extremism unfolds with the killing of 16 Maoists, including a top leader, during Operation Megaburu in Jharkhand.
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Approximately 3 minutes and 30 seconds.
Main Article
In a decisive operation labeled Operation Megaburu, 16 Maoists, including the notorious leader Patiram Manjhi alias Anal Da, were neutralized by security forces in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district. This operation, conducted jointly by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Jharkhand Police, highlights the government’s relentless campaign to eradicate Left-wing extremism in India.
Patiram Manjhi, carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 2.35 crore, was known for his involvement in various high-profile attacks since 1987, including a lethal assault on a CISF camp. His presence among the casualties signifies a considerable success for Indian security forces. Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the operation as a crucial step in the ongoing fight against Naxalism, encouraging surviving Maoists to surrender. “We are committed to eradicating Naxalism, synonymous with fear and terror for decades,” Shah stated in a recent communication.
The firefight erupted following precise intelligence that pinpointed the location of Anal Da and his crew in the Saranda forest, a known stronghold for Maoist activities. In total, around 1,500 personnel from the CRPF’s elite CoBRA unit participated in this operation, showcasing the mobilization of extensive resources. Highlighting its importance, CRPF Inspector General Saket Kumar Singh noted that this was the largest number of Maoist bodies recovered in a single encounter in the region. With the identification of the slain, authorities reported that only 60-65 Maoists remain active in Jharkhand, primarily within Singhbhum, signaling a rapid decline of organized extremism in the area.
Notably, the casualties included five women and several senior leaders, indicative of the operation’s widespread impact. Officials assert that such missions will continue until the influence of Maoists is eradicated, completing the government’s commitment to eliminating Naxalism by March 2026. As the law enforcement gears up for subsequent operations, the success of Operation Megaburu serves as a clarion call for other regions affected by Maoist violence, potentially rallying support from the local populace against extremism.
Short Summary
Operation Megaburu effectively neutralized 16 Maoists, including a high-profile leader, marking a significant victory in India’s campaign against Naxalism. With government commitment to eradicate this threat by March 2026, security forces are poised for more operations, aiming to reclaim stability in affected areas.
