In a tragic turn of events, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Giripunje lost his life and several other personnel sustained injuries after a landmine blast triggered by Naxals struck a patrolling team in the Dondra village area of Sukma district. The attack occurred on the Konta–Errabore road, close to the Motu border, as security forces were conducting a foot patrol in anticipation of Maoist disruption during the CPI (Maoist)’s announced Bharat Bandh on June 10.

Deadly Blast During Routine Patrol

The patrol, organized to counter potential Naxal activity during the bandh, encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion that seriously injured ASP Giripunje and wounded other members of the team, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police, an Inspector, and several jawans. The injured were immediately rushed to Konta Hospital, but ASP Giripunje succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

Maoist Tactic Behind the Ambush

Authorities suspect the Naxals lured the patrol team using a false fire alert in the Konta region. Once the team approached Dondra, the IED—allegedly pressure-activated—was detonated. Shrapnel and debris at the scene highlighted the intensity of the explosion.

Tributes Pour In from State Leaders

Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister praised Giripunje as a “brave soldier” who had been decorated for valor multiple times. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai called the death “heart-wrenching” and stressed that Maoist violence must be stopped. He emphasized that Giripunje’s sacrifice would not go in vain.

Maoist Threat Persists in the Region

Despite recent losses suffered by the Maoists—including the death of their general secretary—their insurgency remains active in Sukma. Security forces have reportedly killed 201 Maoist rebels this year alone. The latest attack underscores the persistent threat and operational challenges in the area.

Call for Improved Safety Measures

The killing of ASP Giripunje has renewed calls for enhanced safety protocols and more effective counterinsurgency strategies. Officials are likely to ramp up anti-Naxal operations and explore improved technologies for IED detection to safeguard forces on the ground.

A Martyr Remembered:
ASP Akash Rao Giripunje’s sacrifice serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by security personnel operating in Maoist-affected regions and the ongoing battle against insurgency in India’s heartland.