In Chhattisgarh, a significant confrontation between security forces and Maoists unfolded in the Dantewada district on Tuesday. A joint operation by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) resulted in the deaths of nine Maoist fighters.

The encounter began around 10:30 am and is still ongoing. During the intense firefight, the bodies of nine Maoists, who were dressed in uniforms, were found at the scene. This incident brings the total number of Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh this year to 154, according to local police reports.

The operation was launched based on intelligence that suggested Maoist presence in the area. In addition to the casualties, security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons, including a Self-Loading Rifle (SLR), a .303 Rifle, and a .315 Bore Rifle.

Authorities have confirmed that all personnel involved in the operation are safe. Updates will be provided as the situation develops and the operation concludes.

What is Maoism?

Maoism is a branch of communism developed by Mao Zedong. It advocates for seizing state power through a mix of armed conflict, mass mobilization, and strategic alliances. Maoists employ propaganda and disinformation against state institutions as part of their strategy. Mao referred to this approach as the "Protracted People's War," which emphasizes the military struggle to achieve power.

Who are the Indian Maoists?

The most prominent and violent Maoist group in India is the Communist Party of India (Maoist). Formed in 2004 through the merger of two major Maoist factions—the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) People's War and the Maoist Communist Centre of India—the CPI (Maoist) is the largest Maoist organization in the country. It, along with its affiliated groups, is listed as a banned terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

What is the central theme of Maoist ideology?

The central theme of Maoist ideology is the use of violence and armed insurgency to gain control of the state. According to Maoist doctrine, the use of arms is essential and non-negotiable. Maoists glorify violence and train their cadres, known as the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), to inflict terror on the population. They also exploit issues related to the perceived failures of the existing system to mobilize people, indoctrinating them to view violence as the sole solution.

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