Top Maoist Sniper Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter: Major Blow to Insurgents
A significant victory against Maoist insurgents in Chhattisgarh was achieved as Sodhi Kanna, a prominent sniper and deputy commander of the Maoists' elite Battalion No. 1, was killed in a prolonged encounter with security forces in Bijapur district, according to officials on Monday.
The operation occurred in the dense forested area of Indravati National Park, known for being a stronghold of Maoist activity in South Bastar. The gunfight commenced on July 4 after receiving specific intelligence pertaining to the presence of key Maoist units, including the Telangana State Committee (TSC), the National Park area committee, and the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion No. 1.
The encounter extended over approximately 48 hours, with sporadic exchanges of gunfire. Upon concluding the operation, authorities recovered the body of Sodhi Kanna, along with a .303 rifle, detonators, and a significant stash of ammunition.
Kanna, who had a bounty of ₹8 lakh on his head, served a dual purpose as a sniper and deputy commander within the Maoist military wing. His demise is considered a major blow to the Maoists’ ability to conduct long-range combat in the area, stated Bijapur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Yadav.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai commended the security forces for their courage and perseverance, noting that the successful operation exemplifies the government's ongoing commitment to eradicating left-wing extremism in Bastar.
Official statistics reveal that at least 415 Maoists have been killed in various encounters across the Bastar division over the last 18 months, indicating a consistent reduction in insurgent activity in one of India’s most challenging regions.
