Inspector Ashish Sharma Killed in Anti-Maoist Operation in Chhattisgarh
Bhopal/Rajnandgaon, November 20, 2025 – In a tragic development, Inspector Ashish Sharma of the Madhya Pradesh Police's Hawk Force lost his life during a coordinated security operation against Maoist insurgents in Chhattisgarh's Rajnandgaon district on November 19, 2025.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday morning in the Kurzher-Bortalab area, located at the intersection of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra. The operation was launched following specific intelligence reports about a heavily armed Maoist group in the vicinity. Personnel from the Madhya Pradesh Hawk Force, Chhattisgarh Police, and Maharashtra commandos combined their efforts in the mission. Inspector Sharma, who was at the forefront, was fatally wounded in the thigh and abdomen during a fierce exchange of gunfire. Despite immediate medical intervention, including an attempt to airlift him for further treatment, he could not be saved.
Inspector Sharma, around 40 years old and from Bohani village in the Narsinghpur district, came from a farming background. He had earned considerable respect for his courage, having received gallantry medals twice for his involvement in high-stakes anti-Maoist operations. His colleagues admired him as a fearless leader, often tasked with challenging missions in Naxal-affected territories.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, "Inspector Ashish Sharma made the supreme sacrifice while combating Naxals. I pay my humble tributes to this brave son of the soil and extend condolences to his bereaved family." Senior police officers, including Special Director General (Naxal Operations) Pankaj Srivastva, reiterated the significant impact of his loss on the Hawk Force, highlighting his commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations in Maoist-dominated areas.
The operation highlights ongoing efforts by security forces to tackle left-wing extremism in the forested regions of central India. Although the encounter led to the recovery of weapons and materials, the details regarding Maoist casualties are still being verified.
Inspector Sharma's sacrifice has prompted widespread tributes on social media and through official channels, with many emphasizing the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by security personnel in internal security operations. It is reported that he was just months away from his wedding, adding a deeply personal element to the national tragedy.
The Hawk Force, designed for specialized counter-insurgency operations, continues to be integral to anti-Naxal initiatives, working in conjunction with central paramilitary forces.
