Bijapur, January 19, 2026 : Six Maoists, including four women cadres, were killed in a major anti-Maoist operation in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, delivering a significant setback to insurgent activity in the region. The encounter took place during a coordinated operation by a joint team of the District Reserve Guard, COBRA and the Special Task Force.
Security officials said the slain Maoists have been identified as Dilip Bedja, Madvi Kosa, Lakhi Madkam and Radha, while efforts are ongoing to establish the identities of the remaining two. Among them, Dilip Bedja was described as a long-time operative active in the Indravati Reserve and National Park areas, where he was allegedly involved in planning and executing violent attacks against the state.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma stated that Bedja was neutralised after repeatedly refusing appeals to surrender and give up arms. He added that with Bedja’s elimination, the National Park region can now be regarded as almost free from Maoist influence.
The operation also resulted in the recovery of a substantial cache of arms and explosives, including two AK-47 rifles, one INSAS rifle, two .303 rifles and six grenades, highlighting the scale of firepower held by the insurgents.
Reacting to the development, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai once again urged Maoists to renounce violence and return to the mainstream. In a social media message, he reaffirmed that the state government remains committed to ensuring rehabilitation based on justice, security and dignity for those who choose the path of peace.
