Chhattisgarh Reshuffles 8 IPS Officers for Anti-Maoist Operations Following Officer's Death
The Chhattisgarh government has transferred eight IPS officers of the 2021 batch to strengthen anti-Maoist operations in the state. This strategic reshuffle, deploying them as Additional Superintendents of Police in Naxal-affected districts like Sukma, Dantewada, and Bijapur, comes after ASP Akash Girepunje was killed in an IED blast. The move aims to intensify efforts against Maoist insurgency and enhance security in the region.
Unpacked:
The Naxalite–Maoist insurgency is an ongoing conflict between the Indian government and left-wing extremist groups seeking to establish a communist state. Chhattisgarh is a significant hotspot due to its dense forests, tribal population, and history of Maoist activity, leading to frequent violence and security operations.
ASP Akash Girepunje was a police officer serving in a Naxal-affected district. He was killed in an IED blast, a common tactic used by Maoist insurgents targeting security forces in Chhattisgarh's conflict zones.
Recent months have seen intensified operations: security forces have killed or arrested several Maoists, and many have surrendered, citing disillusionment with the movement and mistreatment by commanders. Several security personnel have also been injured or killed in ongoing clashes.
Sukma, Dantewada, and Bijapur are among the most affected districts in Chhattisgarh, facing frequent Maoist attacks. Deploying newly transferred IPS officers aims to strengthen leadership, boost morale, and intensify security operations in these high-risk areas.