In the wake of a deadly attack that killed a senior police officer, security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region have ramped up their anti-Naxal operations with renewed determination. A day after the tragic incident, Bastar Range Inspector General Sundarraj P visited the blast site in Sukma district and issued a strong statement, declaring that the police will not rest until Naxalism is completely wiped out from the region.
The attack, which took place on Monday at a stone quarry near the Konta police station limits, claimed the life of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Girepunje. Two other officers were injured in the explosion, triggered by a pressure-activated Improvised Explosive Device (IED) reportedly planted by Maoists.
During his visit to the site on Tuesday, IG Sundarraj reviewed the situation on the ground and later met with police personnel at Konta police station. Paying tribute to the fallen officer, he assured the force that Girepunje’s sacrifice would not be in vain.
“Our resolve is stronger than ever. We will continue our mission with full strength. The sacrifice of ASP Akash Rao will be the driving force behind our fight against Naxalism,” Sundarraj said while addressing the personnel.
He also confirmed that a second IED had been found and safely defused by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad at the same location. Debris and other components used in the blast were recovered as part of the investigation.
An FIR has been registered at Konta police station, and a search operation has been launched to track down those responsible for the attack. Security forces are combing the area and have been ordered to respond firmly to such provocations.
“The entire Bastar police force is united. We are prepared on all fronts—this fight is not just for security but for lasting peace and development in the region,” the IG added.
ASP Girepunje, originally from Raipur district, joined the police service in 2013. He had been serving in Konta since March last year and was known for his dedication and commitment to the anti-Naxal mission.
His untimely death has sparked deep sorrow among colleagues and intensified the security establishment’s drive to crack down on Maoist activity in the region.
With tensions running high, officials have promised swift and strict action against the perpetrators, reaffirming that such acts of violence will not deter their mission to bring stability and progress to Bastar.
