Operation Sankalp, the large-scale anti-Maoist offensive on the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border, entered its 19th day with significant secrecy and selective disclosures by authorities. Despite calls from civil society and political outfits for a ceasefire and peace talks, the joint operation by central and state forces continues in the Karregutta mountain region—an area long used by Maoist PLGA battalion 1 as a strategic hideout due to its complex network of caves and natural fortifications. Thousands of personnel have surrounded the mountains, scaling them from both bottom and top with helicopter assistance, aiming to dismantle Maoist dominance. However, conflicting reports persist about the number of casualties, including speculations about the death of top Maoist leader Chandranna.
An intense gunfight on Thursday near the Nugur forest in Telangana’s Mulugu district resulted in the death of three Greyhounds commandos—Vadla Sridhar, N Pavan Kalyan, and T Sandeep—after Maoists triggered landmines and opened fire. Telangana DGP Dr. Jitender confirmed that the attack was carried out by 35–40 armed extremists, including women, lying in ambush. Injured personnel were rushed for treatment, with one RSI reported stable. Though Chhattisgarh’s home minister claimed over 30 Maoists were killed recently, only five deaths have been officially acknowledged so far. Meanwhile, forces claim to have captured 70% of Karregutta, uncovering large cave hideouts and Maoist stockpiles including vitamin and protein supplements, while their own men suffered heatstroke in the harsh forest terrain.
The resurgence of anti-Maoist operations has reignited conversations around previous peace efforts. In 2004, talks between Maoist leaders and the then Andhra Pradesh Congress government showed promising dialogue over land reforms and democratic rights. However, those talks fell apart, leading to targeted killings and arrests. Recent appeals by Telangana CM Revanth Reddy for renewed talks have lacked national backing, and BJP MoS Bandi Sanjay has ruled out negotiations altogether. Analysts see recent political statements as attempts to sway local sentiment in former Naxal strongholds rather than genuine peace initiatives. With rising sympathy and public rallies in support of ceasefire, the on-ground situation remains tense and unresolved.
