A CISF personnel was killed after two rounds were fired accidentally while he was cleaning his service rifle at the Bachheli camp in Dantewada. Police have started an investigation into the incident.

 A Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Head Constable died after his service rifle accidentally fired two rounds while he was cleaning it at the CISF camp in Bachheli, Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district.The deceased has been identified as Head Constable Dattatraya (50), who was posted at the CISF Bachheli camp. He was a resident of Ahilyanagar district in Maharashtra.According to police, the incident took place at the 10-11 A camp area of CISF in Bachheli police station limits. The personnel was cleaning his AK-47 rifle (butt number 405) inside Potacabin No. 3 when the weapon suddenly fired.The bullets hit the head constable, leaving him critically injured. He was immediately taken to Apollo Hospital, Bachheli, where doctors declared him dead after examination.

Body Sent for Postmortem

Following the incident, the body was kept at the NMDC Bachheli mortuary. After completion of legal formalities, it has been sent to Dantewada District Hospital for postmortem.The family members of the deceased personnel have also reached Bachheli after receiving information about the incident.

Police Begin Investigation

Police officials reached the CISF camp and started investigating the circumstances that led to the firing. The exact reason behind the accidental discharge will be clear after the forensic examination and postmortem report.Officials said the investigation is underway and further details will be available after the completion of the probe.

The Tricolour Yatra in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region entered its second day on Thursday, with the procession travelling through areas that were once considered strongholds of Maoist violence. The journey, which began from Narayanpur on August 12, reached Dantewada via Barsur on its first day.

After an overnight halt in Dantewada, the yatra resumed on August 13 and is travelling towards Sukma and Bijapur. Hundreds of bikers are participating in the journey under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma and Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap.

Route From Dantewada to Bijapur

The second-day route begins in Dantewada and passes through Kuakonda, Bhusarās Valley, Chingavaram, Sukma, Errabor, Manikonta, Dornapal and Polampalli.

The procession will then pass through Burkapal, Minpa-Tadmetla, Chintalnar, Jagargunda, Silger and Tekalgudembefore reaching Bijapur.

Several of these locations have previously been associated with major Maoist attacks, security operations and prolonged insurgency in Bastar. The movement of a large Tricolour procession through these areas is being presented as a symbol of the changing security environment in the region.

Tributes to Fallen Security Personnel

During the journey, participants will pay tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in Maoist attacks.

Soil will also be collected from locations where security personnel were killed in major attacks. The organisers have said the initiative is intended to preserve the memories of the martyrs and highlight their sacrifice for future generations.

Burkapal, Minpa-Tadmetla, Chintalnar, Jagargunda, Silger and Tekalgudem are among the key locations where tributes will be paid during the second leg of the journey.

Areas Once Hit by Maoist Violence

Southern Bastar was for years among the regions most affected by Maoist insurgency. Armed encounters, attacks on security forces and disruption of administrative activities were frequent in several parts of the region.

The Tricolour Yatra is now passing through these same areas with a large group of participants, highlighting the government's efforts to underline improved security and greater administrative access in Bastar.

Final Leg on August 14

The third and final day of the yatra will be held on August 14.

From Bijapur, the procession will travel through Awapalli, Usur, Galgam, Nambi and Tadpala before reaching Kurreghutta Hill.

Kurreghutta was previously regarded as an area under strong Maoist influence and is being positioned as the most significant destination of the three-day journey.

The Tricolour will be hoisted on the hill on August 14, marking the conclusion of the yatra.

Message of Changing Bastar

The journey from Narayanpur through Dantewada, Sukma and Bijapur is linking several areas that have witnessed years of conflict and security challenges.

By paying tribute at sites associated with the deaths of security personnel and concluding the journey with the hoisting of the national flag at Kurreghutta, the organisers aim to highlight national unity, the sacrifices of security forces and the changing situation in Bastar.

The yatra will formally conclude on August 14 after the Tricolour is hoisted at Kurreghutta Hill.

The mortal remains of CRPF Head Constable Vishnu Prasad Baghel, who lost his life in a firing incident at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Assam, reached his native village in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat district on Thursday amid an outpouring of grief.

Villagers, relatives and public representatives gathered in large numbers to pay their final respects as slogans of "Jab Tak Suraj Chand Rahega, Vishnu Tera Naam Rahega" echoed through the village. The final rites are scheduled to be conducted with full state honours.

Killed in Assam CRPF Camp Firing

The incident occurred on the morning of August 4 at the 34th Battalion CRPF camp in Katimari, Nagaon district of Assam.

According to the CRPF, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Ballani Premabaram, a resident of Andhra Pradesh, allegedly took an INSAS rifle from the guard room and opened fire towards the barracks and quarter guard.

The firing claimed the lives of Sub-Inspector Ramnawal Singh Yadav and Head Constable Vishnu Prasad Baghel. The accused ASI later allegedly died by suicide after shooting himself. Another CRPF personnel, ASI Mane Govind, sustained injuries in the incident.

Officials said Baghel suffered a bullet injury to his abdomen and was rushed to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Recently Posted to Assam

Vishnu Baghel had recently been transferred to the 34th Battalion in Assam after receiving a promotion. Before his transfer, he was posted with the 107th Battalion CRPF in Bhopal.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances that led to the firing inside the CRPF camp.

Village Pays Emotional Farewell

As the tricolour-draped coffin arrived at his ancestral village of Bhikewada (Sherpar), hundreds of villagers assembled to pay tribute to the fallen security personnel.

Family members broke down in grief during the final viewing. His parents, wife, son and daughter were inconsolable as residents lined the streets to honour the slain head constable.

The funeral procession witnessed participation from villagers, local residents from the Paraswada region and public representatives, including Congress MLA Madhu Bhagat, who offered floral tributes.

Only Son of His Parents

Baghel was the only son of his parents. His father is reportedly paralysed, while his mother is undergoing treatment for cancer.

He is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

The incident has left the family and the entire village in mourning. His last rites are being performed with full state honours in recognition of his service to the nation.

Investigation Continues

The CRPF has initiated an inquiry into the firing incident to establish the sequence of events and the circumstances that led to the attack inside the camp.

Officials are expected to examine security protocols and statements from personnel posted at the battalion as part of the investigation.

Migrant Workers Targeted in Fresh Terror Attack in Jammu and Kashmir

In a gruesome terror attack reminiscent of the Pahalgam incident, two migrant labourers from Chhattisgarh were shot dead by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district after they were allegedly identified as Hindus. The victims, who had travelled to Kashmir in search of livelihood, were working at a brick kiln in Kelam, around 20 kilometres from Kulgam town.

The deceased have been identified as Deepak Ratre (24) from Bundeli village in Sakti district and Bhupendra Bhaina (28) from Chhuiha village in Sarangarh-Bilaigarh district. Security forces have launched a massive search operation in the area while investigations into the attack are underway.

Attack Followed Religious Identification

According to preliminary information, the terrorists first questioned the group of migrant workers about their identities. After confirming their names and identifying them as Hindus, the attackers allegedly separated the two men from the group and opened fire at close range.

Officials said the attack occurred around 8:30 pm at the brick kiln where several migrant workers were employed. Witnesses reportedly heard three to four rounds of gunfire before the attackers fled the scene.

Security agencies have cordoned off the entire area, intensified vehicle checks, and launched a joint search operation involving the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other security forces.

Families Lose Their Sole Breadwinners

Deepak Ratre had moved to Jammu and Kashmir nearly a year ago along with his wife and brother to earn a living. He leaves behind his elderly mother, a specially-abled brother, his wife, and a two-year-old son. Family members described him as the sole earning member supporting the household.

Meanwhile, Bhupendra Bhaina had travelled to Kashmir with his wife nearly three months ago for work. He is survived by his two-year-old son, grandmother, and sister, who remain in their native village.

The deaths have plunged both villages into mourning, with relatives and residents expressing shock over the tragic incident.

Bodies to Be Brought Back to Chhattisgarh

State authorities have initiated the process of bringing the mortal remains of both victims back to Chhattisgarh. Officials from the district administration have met the bereaved families and assured them of all possible assistance.

As per existing provisions, the families of terror attack victims are entitled to compensation of around ₹16 lakh, including an immediate relief amount of ₹2 lakh.

Investigation Focuses on Terror Module

Initial investigations indicate that the attackers may have conducted prior reconnaissance before targeting the brick kiln. Intelligence agencies suspect the involvement of both a local militant and a foreign terrorist.

Sources said investigators are examining the possible role of Mohammad Latif, who reportedly joined the Lashkar-e-Taiba/The Resistance Front (TRF) last year. However, officials have not issued any formal statement confirming the identities of the attackers.

The incident has also raised concerns ahead of Kashmir's upcoming apple harvesting season, when thousands of migrant labourers travel to the Valley for seasonal work.

Chief Minister Condemns Attack

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a "cowardly act of terrorism."

He expressed grief over the loss of innocent lives and said the state government is in constant touch with the Jammu and Kashmir administration to ensure all possible assistance to the affected families.

"The Chhattisgarh government stands firmly with the bereaved families during this difficult time," the Chief Minister said while paying tribute to the victims.

Recent Spike in Terror Incidents

The attack comes just days after a police personnel was killed in a terrorist attack in Anantnag during security deployment for the Amarnath Yatra. Security agencies have expressed concern over renewed attempts by terrorists to target civilians and migrant workers in the Valley.

With the latest incident, security forces have intensified anti-terror operations across South Kashmir.

Violence erupts during anti-government demonstrations in Rawalakot; rival political parties trade allegations of poll rigging

At least 19 people were killed and several others injured after Pakistani security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters during anti-government demonstrations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)amid the first phase of Assembly elections. The violence broke out as protesters called for a boycott of the polls, with opposition groups accusing authorities of suppressing dissent and manipulating the electoral process.

Supporters of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) claimed security personnel fired indiscriminately on demonstrators in Rawalakot, killing at least 19 people. The organisation later released the names of those killed through its social media platforms.

Separately, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) alleged that one of its workers was killed and two others were injured in firing by supporters of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Both parties have accused each other of attempting to influence the election through rigging.

Election boycott fuels unrest

Thousands of protesters gathered in Rawalakot and other parts of PoK demanding a boycott of the Assembly elections and protesting against the existing political system.

Visuals from several polling stations reportedly showed deserted voting centres, with local reports claiming poor voter turnout in multiple areas. Demonstrators argued that the electoral process lacked credibility and accused the government of undermining democratic rights.

The unrest comes after the Pakistan government banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) ahead of a planned protest in June and detained several of its leaders. Since then, sit-ins, demonstrations and road blockades have continued across parts of PoK.

Security measures tightened

Authorities imposed strict security arrangements in several districts following weeks of unrest. Mobile internet services remain suspended in many areas, while restrictions on movement have affected the supply of essential goods in some regions.

The Poonch division, considered the centre of the protests, has witnessed prolonged demonstrations and repeated clashes between protesters and security forces in recent weeks.

Refugee seats remain key point of dispute

The elections are being conducted in three phases for the 45-member Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Assembly, after authorities postponed the original polling schedule citing security concerns.

A major point of contention remains the 12 Assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees residing in Pakistan. JAAC has opposed the arrangement, arguing that these seats dilute the political representation of residents living in PoK and disproportionately benefit parties ruling in Islamabad.

The Pakistan government, however, maintains that the refugee seats are constitutionally protected and form part of the region's long-standing electoral framework.

National leaders campaign despite tensions

Despite the deteriorating security situation, senior leaders from Pakistan's major political parties actively campaigned in PoK.

Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz addressed multiple election rallies, promising major infrastructure and development projects. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also campaigned extensively, hoping to improve the party's electoral performance in the region.

The Assembly election follows continued political instability after the collapse of the previous government, with multiple leadership changes since the 2021 polls.

Authorities have not yet released an official casualty figure beyond local reports, while investigations into the violence remain ongoing.

The Ministry of Defence has acknowledged a proposal seeking the creation of a dedicated Bastar Regiment in the Indian Army, responding to a request made by Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has informed Sharma that the proposal has been received and is currently under examination.

The development follows a letter sent by Sharma to the Defence Minister on June 26, 2026, urging the Centre to establish a Bastar Regiment in recognition of the courage and service of tribal youth from the Bastar region. In his communication, Sharma highlighted the role played by local tribal communities in supporting security forces and contributing to anti-Naxal operations in one of the country's most challenging conflict zones.

In a reply dated July 9, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed that the proposal had reached the ministry and stated that it was undergoing the prescribed process of examination. While the response does not indicate any final decision, it confirms that the request is being officially considered.

Proposal Highlights Tribal Contribution

In his letter, Sharma argued that tribal youth from Bastar have consistently demonstrated bravery while working alongside security forces in counter-insurgency operations. He maintained that creating a Bastar Regiment would not only recognise their contribution but also strengthen national security by drawing upon the region's familiarity with difficult terrain and operational conditions.

The Deputy Chief Minister also suggested that such a regiment could serve as a symbol of pride for the region while encouraging greater participation of local youth in the armed forces.

Employment and National Service

According to Sharma, establishing a Bastar Regiment could open more opportunities for young people from the region to join the Indian Army. He said it would promote values such as discipline, patriotism and national service while creating a stronger connection between the armed forces and the tribal population.

The proposal has also been shared publicly through Sharma's official social media accounts, where he posted both his letter to the Defence Minister and the ministry's response.

No Final Decision Yet

The Defence Ministry has not announced any decision regarding the formation of a new regiment. Its communication merely confirms receipt of the proposal and states that the matter is under review in accordance with official procedures.

The Indian Army traditionally raises regiments based on a range of operational, administrative and historical considerations. Any decision to create a new regiment involves multiple levels of assessment within the Ministry of Defence and the Army headquarters.

Hope Among Bastar Residents

Although no approval has been granted, the ministry's acknowledgement has generated optimism among residents of Bastar. Supporters of the proposal believe that a dedicated regiment could provide greater representation for tribal youth in the armed forces while recognising the region's long-standing contribution to national security efforts.

The proposal comes against the backdrop of continued anti-Naxal operations in Bastar, where local recruitment into security forces has often been viewed as an important element in strengthening regional stability and creating employment opportunities.

Whether the proposal ultimately translates into the formation of a new regiment will depend on the outcome of the ongoing examination by the Defence Ministry and the Indian Army.

Security forces on Thursday demolished the houses of two suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, a day after a police head constable was shot dead while on Amarnath Yatra security duty. The action was taken as part of the investigation into the attack, with security agencies simultaneously expanding anti-terror operations across the Kashmir Valley.

According to officials, the demolished properties belonged to Adil Thoker, a resident of Guri village in Bijbehara, and Haroon Ganai, a resident of Hasanpora. Authorities alleged that both men were involved in the attack that claimed the life of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi earlier this week.

Officials said explosive devices were used to demolish the two houses after evidence collection and as part of the ongoing investigation. Security agencies are examining the broader network that allegedly assisted the suspects.

Head Constable Qureshi, who was attached to the Indian Reserve Police (IRP) and the Special Operations Group (SOG), was deployed for security arrangements related to the annual Amarnath Yatra. The attack took place at around 12:30 pm on Tuesday near Lal Chowk in Anantnag, even though the pilgrimage had been temporarily suspended because of adverse weather conditions.

Police said unidentified terrorists opened fire on the officer from close range. Security personnel present in the area retaliated, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire before the attackers managed to escape. Qureshi suffered critical injuries and was rushed to the Government Medical College (GMC) Hospital in Anantnag, where doctors declared him dead.

The slain officer was a resident of Budgam district and is survived by his wife and three children.

Officials alleged that Adil Thoker is linked to the banned terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Security agencies identified Haroon Ganai as being associated with Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), although another official statement described both suspects as members of Lashkar-e-Taiba. Investigators are continuing to verify the operational links of the two accused.

According to security officials, Thoker allegedly travelled to Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border in 2018, where he is suspected to have undergone terrorist training before infiltrating back into Jammu and Kashmir last year.

Authorities also said that The Resistance Front (TRF), which security agencies describe as a proxy outfit linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the killing of the police officer.

Following the incident, Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with the Army and other security forces, launched an extensive search operation across the Valley. Officials said more than 2,000 suspected Over Ground Workers (OGWs) have been detained for questioning as part of a wider crackdown aimed at dismantling terrorist support networks.

Security agencies are focusing on identifying individuals suspected of providing militants with shelter, transportation, financial support and communication assistance. Search operations and surveillance have been intensified in Anantnag and several other districts.

The latest attack comes amid heightened security concerns in Jammu and Kashmir following a series of recent terrorist incidents. On July 18, security forces foiled a suspected infiltration attempt along the Line of Control in Rajouri after an exchange of fire with suspected infiltrators. Earlier, on July 8, security forces eliminated Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Zakir Ahmed Gani during an encounter in Shopian. He was among the most wanted terrorists identified after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Authorities have reiterated that anti-terror operations will continue across the Union Territory, with investigations underway to identify those involved in recent attacks and dismantle the infrastructure supporting militant activities.

In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh, security forces in Dantewada district have recovered a large cache of weapons, explosives, cash and gold allegedly hidden by Maoists in forested areas under the Barsur police station limits.

The recovery was made during a search operation conducted in the forests near Todma village based on intelligence provided by surrendered Maoists. According to police officials, the seized materials are valued at nearly ₹18 lakh and include firearms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), cash and gold.

Operation Based on Surrendered Maoists’ Inputs

Police said the operation was launched as part of the intensified anti-Maoist campaign being carried out across Bastar division. Acting on information provided by former Maoist cadres who had surrendered, security personnel conducted extensive searches in remote forest and hill terrain.

During the operation, multiple underground dumps allegedly used by Maoists to store weapons and logistics were identified and excavated by the security teams.

Gold and Cash Among Key Recoveries

Among the most notable recoveries were a 116-gram gold biscuit valued at approximately ₹16 lakh and cash amounting to ₹2 lakh.

Officials believe the recovered valuables were part of the Maoist network’s financial reserves and may have been intended for operational activities, procurement of supplies or logistical support.

The discovery of both gold and cash highlights the financial infrastructure maintained by insurgent groups operating in the region.

Large Quantity of Weapons Seized

Security personnel also recovered a substantial quantity of arms and ammunition from the hidden caches.

The recovered weapons include one INSAS rifle, 16 INSAS magazines, four AK-47 magazines, 68 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, 23 SLR magazines and 34 SLR rounds.

Additionally, five 12-bore guns, seven cartridges, three BGL launchers, one BGL shell, two carbine magazines, .303 rounds and chargers were seized during the operation.

Police officials said the recovery has significantly weakened the operational capability of Maoist cadres active in the area.

Explosives and Bomb-Making Material Found

The search team also recovered a large quantity of explosive materials and improvised weapons.

The seized explosives include six tiffin bombs, four pipe bombs, 122 arrow bombs, one para bomb, two country-made hand grenades and two improvised mortars. Security personnel also found detonators, codex wire, gelatin sticks and 14 pressure-cooker-based explosive containers.

According to investigators, the explosives could have been used to target security personnel, road-opening parties or public infrastructure in the region.

Other Maoist Materials Recovered

Besides weapons and explosives, the security forces seized several other items linked to Maoist activities. These included country-made firearms, revolvers, an air gun, uniform cloth, medicines, Maoist pamphlets, literature and other logistical supplies.

Officials believe the recovered materials were part of a larger support network operating in the dense forest region of south Bastar.

Major Blow to Maoist Network

Dantewada Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai described the operation as a major success in the fight against Left-Wing Extremism.

He said the recovery has dealt a significant setback to Maoist activities in the area and may have prevented potential attacks targeting security forces.

Security agencies have intensified operations across Bastar in recent months, supported by intelligence gathered from surrendered cadres and local sources. Authorities believe continued pressure on Maoist networks is yielding results, with increasing recoveries of weapons and a growing number of surrenders.

Further investigation is underway to determine the origin of the recovered materials and identify the Maoist units that had stored them in the forest area.

Top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Zakir Ahmad Ganai was killed during an anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district, marking another significant success for security forces in their ongoing crackdown on terrorism in the Valley. Ganai, who was among the 14 most-wanted local terrorists identified after the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, was found dead on Wednesday after security personnel recovered his body from the encounter site. The operation, launched on Saturday, entered its fifth consecutive day as forces continued extensive search operations across the region. Officials said the mission involved the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), with multiple elite units participating to eliminate remaining militants and dismantle terror infrastructure in south Kashmir.

Five-Day Operation Ends in Major Success

The anti-terror operation began in the Chanapora area of Shopian after intelligence agencies received credible inputs about the presence of heavily armed terrorists hiding in the region. Security forces launched a coordinated search involving the Army's Rashtriya Rifles, Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF personnel.

Although two terrorists were neutralised during the initial phase of the operation on Saturday, Ganai's body was recovered only after an extensive search conducted over several days. Dense orchards and difficult terrain reportedly slowed the recovery process, prompting security forces to deploy additional personnel and surveillance measures.

The Army's Victor Force sealed all possible escape routes, while lighting arrangements were installed to facilitate night operations. Search teams continued combing nearby villages and forested areas to ensure no militants managed to flee.

Linked to Multiple Terror Activities

According to security officials, Zakir Ahmad Ganai hailed from Matlahama village in Kulgam district and had been active in south Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region since 2023. Intelligence agencies believe he played an active role in coordinating Pakistan-backed terror activities in the Valley.

His name surfaced prominently during investigations into the April 2026 Pahalgam terror attack, following which central agencies released a list of 14 local terrorists allegedly associated with Pakistan-based terror organisations. Authorities had also demolished the houses of several identified militants as part of the intensified crackdown.

Officials said Ganai had been associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba since 2024 and was considered a key operative within the outfit's local network.

Nine Terrorists Eliminated So Far

With Ganai's elimination, security agencies have neutralised nine of the 14 terrorists identified after the Pahalgam attack. Five militants from the list remain at large and continue to be the focus of intelligence-based operations across south Kashmir.

The government's anti-terror campaign has intensified over the past year through a series of coordinated operations, including Operation Sindoor, Operation Keller, Operation Mahadev, Operation Akhal, Operation Gudder and the ongoing Operation Sherowali. These missions have targeted terrorist hideouts, overground worker networks and infiltration routes across the Union Territory.

Officials maintain that counter-terror operations will continue until the remaining wanted terrorists are tracked down and eliminated.

Village authorities invoke 1956 Act to mandate prior notice for police, army patrols and drone surveillance

Tensions in Manipur took a new turn on Monday as village authorities in Noney district issued a formal notice restricting how security forces can operate in their areas. The Village Authority of Longjang/Thangal village has told the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles and CRPF that personnel cannot enter villages or deploy drones without advance intimation.

The notice, citing the Manipur Hill Areas Village Authority Act of 1956, asserts that village bodies hold responsibility for local security and law and order. Officials said any search operation, patrol, raid or arrest now requires prior communication to village authorities.

Women Block Assam Rifles Again

Just a day earlier, women in Shokwao and New Haven areas of Ukhrul district stopped Assam Rifles personnel from moving forward. Residents continued protesting late into Sunday evening, carrying torches. It remains unclear whether Monday's notice is directly linked to that blockade.

Deadly Week in Kangpokpi

The restrictions come amid a fresh wave of violence. On Monday, a Kuki militant group opened fire in Pongringlong Rongmei Naga village in Kangpokpi district. Shortly after, the body of Chunjanglung Panmei, a Naga village guard reported missing, was recovered from a forest area. He had been shot in the head.

In a separate incident, unidentified armed men fired shots in Ching Mamang village, leaving one person injured. Naga organisations have publicly accused security forces of bias and are demanding an impartial investigation. Some groups have alleged that the Centre is using Kuki outfits to wage what they call a "shadow war" in the state.

Women's Rally Demands NRC

Over in Imphal, thousands of women took to the streets on Monday in a 5-km mega rally. Organised by 14 civil society groups, the protest demanded implementation of the National Register of Citizens and the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants. The turnout suggested growing public frustration over what many see as unchecked inflows across porous borders.

Three Years, 731 Deaths in Relief Camps

Ethnic violence has now persisted in Manipur for nearly three years, with complete peace still elusive. Information obtained through an RTI request has revealed that 731 displaced persons have died while living in relief camps over this period.

Churachandpur district recorded the highest number of deaths at 248, followed by Bishnupur with 151 and Kangpokpi with 128. Official data shows that 43,676 people remain displaced across nine districts of the state, many of them still unwilling or unable to return to their original villages.

With village authorities now asserting greater control over security operations and fresh violence continuing to erupt, the coming days will test whether security forces can adapt to these local restrictions while maintaining order across the hills and valleys of Manipur.

A CAF jawan allegedly shot himself with his INSAS service rifle while on duty at a Kondagaon camp. Authorities are investigating the circumstances behind the incident.

A 45-year-old jawan of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) allegedly died by suicide after shooting himself with his service rifle inside a security camp in Chhattisgarh’s Kondagaon district late on Monday night, officials said.

The incident was reported from the Urandabeda police station limits, where the jawan was deployed as part of the 5th Battalion of the CAF. The deceased has been identified as Jogendra Netam, a resident of Badedongar area. According to officials, he had been posted at the camp around three months ago and was assigned security duties at the time of the incident.

Shot During Duty

Preliminary information suggests that Netam used his INSAS service rifle to fire at his temple while on duty. The gunshot alerted other personnel stationed in the camp, who rushed to the spot immediately.

However, by the time fellow jawans reached him, he had succumbed to his injuries. The incident triggered an immediate response from camp authorities, who informed senior security officials and the local police.

Senior Officers Reach Spot

Soon after receiving information, police officials and senior officers of the security establishment reached the camp and carried out an inspection of the scene.

Authorities conducted a preliminary examination and initiated standard legal procedures. The body was later sent for post-mortem examination, following which it is expected to be handed over to the family.

No Suicide Note Found

Investigators said no suicide note was recovered from the spot during the initial search. As a result, the exact reason behind the alleged suicide remains unclear.

Officials familiar with the investigation said all possible angles are being examined. While no conclusions have been drawn, personal stress or private issues are among the factors being looked into as part of the inquiry.

Investigation Continues

Kondagaon Superintendent of Police Pankaj Chandra said the case prima facie appears to be one of suicide. However, he noted that the circumstances leading to the incident are still under investigation.

Police teams, along with departmental authorities, are collecting information from colleagues and reviewing the jawan’s recent activities to establish a clearer picture of the events preceding the incident.

Sources said the family has been informed, and statements from those posted at the camp may form part of the ongoing investigation.

Concerns Over Personnel Wellbeing

The incident has once again drawn attention to the challenges faced by security personnel deployed in sensitive and demanding environments. While investigators have not linked the case to any specific factor, authorities are expected to examine whether personal or professional pressures played any role.

Security forces routinely conduct counselling and welfare measures for personnel, particularly those posted in remote locations. Officials indicated that a detailed inquiry report would help determine whether any additional factors contributed to the tragedy.

Similar Incident Recently Reported

The Kondagaon case comes days after another firearm-related suicide involving a security personnel was reported in neighbouring Narayanpur district. In that incident, a district force jawan allegedly shot himself with his service weapon at a camp under Kohkameta police station limits.

Officials have not indicated any connection between the two incidents. Investigations in both cases are being carried out separately.

Further details in the Kondagaon case are expected to emerge once the post-mortem report and departmental inquiry are completed.

Four CRPF Jawans Martyred in IED Blast on Chhattisgarh's Kanker-Narayanpur Border

Security forces recover Naxal dump during operation triggered by inputs from surrendered militants; blast occurs while defusing device in Koroskoda jungle.

Four personnel of the security forces lost their lives in an IED explosion on Saturday in the dense forests along the Kanker-Narayanpur border in Chhattisgarh. The incident occurred during a search operation based on specific intelligence provided by Naxals who had surrendered earlier. 

On Sunday morning, the martyrs were given a solemn guard of honour in Narayanpur and Kanker districts amid heavy hearts. Senior officials, including Bastar Inspector General of Police P. Sundarraj, elected representatives, police personnel, and grieving family members attended the ceremonies. The atmosphere was sombre as tears flowed freely among the kin. After the tributes, the mortal remains were sent to the jawans' native villages for last rites.

Operation Based on Surrendered Naxal Inputs

According to officials, the force had moved into the Koroskoda jungle in the Chhote Bethiya police station area early Saturday morning following leads from recently surrendered Naxals. The region has seen sustained operations aimed at recovering IEDs planted by Maoists over the years.

While the team was attempting to defuse an IED, the device exploded with full force. Three jawans died on the spot due to severe injuries. The fourth, identified as Parmanand Korram, was critically wounded and airlifted to Raipur for advanced treatment. He succumbed to his injuries later in the hospital, officials confirmed.

Bastar IG P. Sundarraj, while confirming the details, said the operation was part of an ongoing drive against residual Naxal infrastructure. “We have been carrying out IED recovery missions based on inputs from surrendered cadres for the past few months. A Naxal dump was also recovered during this search,” he added.

Growing Focus on IED Threat

Security sources familiar with anti-Naxal operations in Bastar region noted that IEDs left behind by retreating Maoists continue to pose a significant challenge. Even as the number of active Naxals has declined due to sustained pressure and surrenders, these hidden explosive devices remain a lethal legacy of the insurgency. Forces have intensified defusing and area sanitisation efforts in recent times.

The incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by jawans in what is often described as a long-drawn battle against Left Wing Extremism. Small teams operating in thick jungles and difficult terrain frequently encounter such threats during cordon-and-search actions.

Political Reactions Pour In

Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel reacted sharply to the incident. In a post on X, he targeted the BJP government at the Centre and in the state, saying mere political slogans about ending Naxalism would not suffice. 

“Naxals have left behind remnants of terror. We also need a campaign to free ourselves from these. This fight is collective. The only option is the complete elimination of anti-democratic forces,” Baghel stated.

The Congress leader’s remarks come at a time when the state government has been claiming significant progress in curbing Naxal violence through coordinated security and development initiatives.

Background of the Area

The Kanker-Narayanpur belt has historically been part of the Maoist-affected Bastar division. While large-scale encounters have reduced and several top leaders have either been neutralised or surrendered, sporadic incidents involving IEDs continue to claim lives. Local residents often express a mix of relief at declining Naxal dominance and anxiety over remaining explosive hazards that affect both security personnel and civilians.

Officials maintained that the current phase of operations draws heavily from intelligence gathered from those who have laid down arms. These inputs have reportedly helped in mapping old dumping grounds and supply routes used by the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist).

Families Await Answers, Forces Vow to Continue

As the bodies reached their hometowns, families of the fallen jawans grappled with sudden loss. Many of the personnel hailed from modest backgrounds and had been serving in specialised units deployed for anti-Naxal duties.

Senior police and CRPF officers have assured a thorough review of the sequence of events to further refine standard operating procedures for IED handling in hostile terrain. Operations in the region are expected to continue with heightened caution.

The martyrdom of the four jawans adds to the long list of sacrifices made by security forces in Chhattisgarh’s fight against Naxalism. While surrenders and developmental works signal a gradual shift, incidents like Saturday’s blast serve as grim reminders of the challenges that persist on the ground.