Chhattisgarh-Telangana Border, In a major breakthrough in India’s ongoing battle against left-wing extremism, the government announced the successful conclusion of Operation Black Forest — a large-scale counter-insurgency operation carried out by security forces along the dense forests bordering Chhattisgarh and Telangana.
Launched on April 21, 2025, the 21-day operation targeted the core areas of Naxalite activity in the Karreguttalu Hills. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the joint forces eliminated 31 Maoist insurgents, including several high-ranking commanders. This marks one of the deadliest crackdowns on the Maoist leadership in recent years.
Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the nation, calling the operation a “historic milestone” in India’s efforts to eradicate Naxalism. He particularly highlighted the death of Nambala Keshav Rao, alias Basavaraju, who was considered the backbone of the Maoist movement. Basavaraju had a reward of ₹1.5 crore on his head and was instrumental in planning several major attacks against security forces.
Security agencies involved in the operation included the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Special Task Force (STF), District Reserve Guard (DRG), and state police units, numbering over 10,000 personnel. Despite difficult terrain and hostile conditions, these forces conducted multiple encounters and seized a large cache of weapons and explosives, including approximately 450 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and two tonnes of explosives.
While the government confirmed 31 insurgent fatalities, independent human rights groups have called for more transparent verification. Official reports acknowledge the deaths of four security personnel and multiple injuries, underscoring the operation’s high risk. Among the injured was Assistant Commandant Sagar Borade of the CRPF CoBRA unit, who suffered a severe injury during a rescue mission.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai praised the bravery and dedication of the security forces, promising that the state would soon be “completely free” of Maoist insurgency. He also emphasized the importance of ongoing development programs aimed at improving the livelihoods of residents in affected regions, which contribute to reducing local support for insurgents.
Following the success of Operation Black Forest, the Ministry of Home Affairs officially removed Bastar and Kondagaon districts from the list of Left Wing Extremism-affected areas. This shift reflects the reduced influence of Maoist groups in these regions, marking a significant step forward in restoring peace and stability.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the security forces for their exemplary commitment and reiterated the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism and foster sustainable development in all parts of the country.
