Final push against Maoists: Security forces target 300 rebels ahead of 2026 deadline

Security forces have intensified counter-insurgency operations across central and eastern India to track down the remaining around 300 Maoist cadres , including four senior central committee leaders of the banned CPI (Maoist) , as the Union government moves to meet its March 31, 2026 deadline to eradicate Naxalism.

Officials said the latest phase of operations is being driven by intelligence-led strikes , long-range patrols and the expansion of forward operating bases in forested border areas of Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Odisha . Specialised units such as the CRPF’s jungle warfare teams and state police commandos are conducting coordinated search-and-destroy missions, supported by drone surveillance, satellite mapping and intercepted communications. A major operation was launched this week along the Chhattisgarh–Telangana border following inputs that senior commander Devji and his deputy were hiding in the region.

Security agencies are also strengthening inter-state intelligence sharing to prevent Maoist leaders from slipping into neighbouring states. Officials said Odisha remains under close watch, as one of the top commanders is believed to be operating from its dense forest zones. Rewards and surrender incentives are being used alongside military pressure to weaken the remaining leadership structure.

Government data indicates substantial progress over the past decade. The number of districts most affected by Left Wing Extremism has fallen from over 120 in 2018 to just 11 in 2025 , with only three districts in Chhattisgarh Bijapur, Sukma and Narayanpur still classified as highly affected . Fatalities linked to Maoist violence have dropped sharply, and hundreds of cadres have either been killed, arrested or surrendered in the last two years.

However, officials acknowledge that intensified operations carry risks for civilians , particularly tribal communities living in forest interiors. The presence of landmines and improvised explosive devices continues to endanger villagers, while large troop movements disrupt daily life and access to forests and farms. Human rights groups have urged security forces to ensure strict adherence to legal procedures and avoid collateral harm during combing operations.