Top Maoist Leader Anil Killed in Major Anti-Naxal Operation in Jharkhand

New Delhi | Digital Desk: The Saranda forests in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district once again echoed with gunfire, but this time, security forces emerged victorious. In a major anti-Naxal operation, notorious Maoist leader Anil was killed during an encounter with security personnel.

Anil was a Central Committee member of CPI (Maoist) and carried a reward of ₹1 crore on his head. The encounter was led by the CoBRA Battalion 209 under the jurisdiction of the Chhotanagpur police station.

According to official sources, the exchange of fire between security forces and Maoists lasted for several hours, resulting in the elimination of 12 Naxalites. Following the encounter, additional forces have been deployed in the area, and an extensive cordon-and-search operation has been intensified to prevent any escape or regrouping.

Who Was Anil?

Anil was known by several aliases, including Tufan, Pathiram Manjhi, Pathiram Marandi, and Ramesh. A native of Giridih district, he had been active for several years in the Saranda region and its adjoining areas. He was involved in numerous serious criminal cases, including murders, bomb attacks, arms trafficking, and robberies, making him one of the most wanted Maoist operatives in the region.

Security agencies described Anil as a key strategic mind within the Maoist organisation. Owing to his tactical expertise, he had repeatedly managed to evade operations by the police and the CRPF. His elimination is therefore being seen as a decisive blow to the Maoist leadership structure.

High Alert in the Region

In the aftermath of the encounter, high alert has been declared across the Saranda forest and nearby villages. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Security agencies are continuing efforts to identify and neutralise other Maoist cadres linked to Anil’s network.

Officials have termed the operation a significant success in the anti-Naxal campaign, noting that it is likely to have a serious impact on the morale and organisational strength of Maoist groups operating in Jharkhand. Security forces have reiterated their resolve, stating that there is no place for Naxal violence on Jharkhand’s soil.