Chaibasa , Jan 22: An encounter has been reported between Naxals and security forces in the Saranda Forests of Chaibasa, Jharkhand, with the operation currently underway, according to Jharkhand police. The encounter follows a significant clash on January 17-18, where six Naxals were killed in Bijapur district under the Bastar range.

Following the latest encounter, the police recovered six Naxals' bodies along with several weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, one NASA rifle, two .303 rifles, and a BGL launcher. In an earlier statement, Deputy Chief Minister of Jharkhand confirmed that four Naxals were killed, including a prominent figure, Dilip Bedja, who had been active in the national park area for a long time.

The incident highlights the ongoing struggle between Naxals and security forces in the region. The operations are part of the state's continuous efforts to curb Naxal violence and extremism.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about the growing influence of urban Naxalism during his address to BJP party workers on January 20. He warned that urban Naxalism is spreading internationally, noting how individuals who speak positively about him or the government are often silenced by media and activists. He stated, “This is the method of Urban Naxalism.”

Prime Minister Modi also reiterated his stance on infiltrators, calling them a serious threat to national security. "Infiltrators pose a very serious threat to the country," he said, emphasizing the importance of identifying and sending them back to their countries. He further highlighted the need for India to tackle infiltrators with full strength, as no nation accepts illegal immigrants.

The government continues to face significant challenges in addressing both Naxal violence in remote areas and the rising influence of urban Naxalism in urban spaces.