• Source:JND
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Chhattisgarh Maoist Encounter:  In a major operation against the Maoists in Chhattisgarh ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, the security forces neutralised at least 29 Naxalites, said Border Security Force. Reports also suggest that three soldiers have been injured in the encounter which is currently underway in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district. According to the IG Bastar P Sundarraj, the encounter took place in the forest area of the Chhotebethiya police station limits.

According to a report by NDTV, top Maoist leader, Shankar Rao, was among the 18 Naxals killed by security forces.

"Bodies of 18 naxals recovered from encounter site in Chhotebethiya of Kanker. 3 jawans were injured in the operation. Search operation underway. This can be seen as one of the biggest anti-naxal operations in the area. The operation was launched after information of the presence of senior naxals Shankar, Lalita, Raju," IG Bastar P Sunddaraj said after the massive anti-Naxal operation.

A large amount of weaponry, including four AK-47 assault rifles, were recovered after the operation. Shankar Rao, the killed Maoist leader, had a bounty of Rs 25 lakh on his head, NDTV reported.

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The encounter erupted at around 2 PM on Tuesday during an anti-Maoist operation by a combined DRG-BSF team. Established in 2008 to counter Maoist activities, the DRG has joined hands with the Border Security Force extensively for insurgency operations in the region.