CRPF Jawan Killed in IED Blast During Anti-Naxal Operation in Odisha
A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan, ASI Satyaban Kumar Singh (34), was killed in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast during an anti-Naxal operation in Odisha's Sundargarh district. The incident occurred near K Balang village when a joint team of CRPF's 134th battalion and Odisha Police's Special Operations Group was conducting a combing operation. Singh sustained injuries to his left leg and succumbed at a Rourkela hospital.
Unpacked:
The Naxalite–Maoist insurgency is an ongoing conflict between Maoist guerrilla groups and the Indian government, particularly in central and eastern India. Odisha, being one of the affected states, has seen violence and anti-Naxal operations for years, although Naxal influence has recently declined due to intensified security measures and operations.
IED (Improvised Explosive Device) attacks are a common tactic used by Naxalites, causing significant casualties among security forces. Such attacks have resulted in several high-profile incidents and deaths, making them a major threat during anti-Naxal operations, especially in forested or remote areas like Sundargarh.
The CRPF provides the bulk of manpower and expertise in counter-insurgency, while the Odisha Police's Special Operations Group specializes in tracking and engaging Naxalites locally. Both forces often collaborate in joint operations to maximize effectiveness and reduce Naxal influence in affected regions.
Yes, security forces have made substantial progress. The CRPF and police operations have significantly weakened Naxal presence, and officials state that Naxalism is now on the verge of being eradicated in Odisha, with ongoing efforts aiming for complete elimination by 2026.