The Media Times

Sukma,: In a major breakthrough for security forces, three Naxalites carrying a cumulative bounty of ₹21 lakh have been arrested in Chhattisgarh’s insurgency-affected Sukma district. The arrest was made during a joint operation conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) 165th battalion and local police.

The arrested Naxalites have been identified as Dodi Podia (36), Dodi Pandu (18), and Dodi Nandu (28), all residents of Gondpalli village under the Jagargunda police station limits. According to police officials, the trio was allegedly involved in the brutal murder of a Shiksha Doot — a temporary visiting teacher — in the district last year. The killing had triggered outrage, drawing attention to the threats faced by government workers and educators in remote, Naxal-affected regions.

Each of the accused carried a significant reward on their head, totaling ₹21 lakh collectively, underscoring their prominence within the banned Maoist outfit. The arrest is seen as a morale booster for the anti-Naxal operations and a step forward in curbing extremist activities in the Bastar region.

Sukma, located in the southern tip of Chhattisgarh, remains one of the worst Naxal-hit areas in India. Security forces have intensified their efforts to dismantle the insurgent network and restore normalcy in the region. Officials emphasized that the operation was a result of precise intelligence and strong coordination between central and state forces.

Further interrogation of the accused is underway, and authorities hope to gain vital information about Naxal operations and hideouts in the area. The state government has reiterated its commitment to continuing development initiatives alongside security action in affected regions.