Balaghat youth abducted by naxalites found dead in Chauria forest

The Parsawada Malajkhand Dalam has claimed responsibility, blaming state authorities for “ruining young people by recruiting them as police informers.”

According to Naxal ASP Adarshkant Shukla, Devendra was taken from his home along the Chini–Kukda route. The rebels left behind a red banner and two pamphlets accusing the government of defaming youth under the guise of police recruitment. The banner warned: “Whoever acts as a police informer, the responsibility for their life will lie with the government and Balaghat police.”

Balaghat police launched an immediate search operation following reports of Devendra’s abduction. While security forces combed the forest on Wednesday without success, senior officials were alerted when the body was discovered on Thursday morning. IG Sanjay Kumar confirmed the recovery and stated that the notes seized at the site carried a stern warning to both the public and the state government.

The red banner, prominently displayed near the body, read: “The youth of Balaghat district are unsafe under Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s government. You cannot serve the state by defaming your own people.” Eyewitnesses in the Lanji area reported heightened tension as security forces intensified monitoring operations in nearby villages to prevent further Naxal activity.

Local officials have condemned the killing, calling it an assault on tribal communities and state institutions. Balaghat Superintendent of Police R. Singh emphasized that “the law will take its own course.” Meanwhile, the Parsawada Area Committee reiterated that Devendra was “sentenced to death for acting against their movement” and vowed to continue targeting those they label as informers.

The Balaghat incident underscores growing concerns over Naxal influence in Madhya Pradesh’s tribal belts and raises questions about the safety of youth amid state recruitment drives. Security forces have stepped up patrols and are urging villagers to cooperate by reporting suspicious movements. The state government has yet to issue an official statement addressing the allegations.