CRPF Moves 4,000 Troops into Chhattisgarh for Final Push Against Naxal Violence

In a major move to counter the lingering threat of Naxalism in Chhattisgarh, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has deployed over 4,000 troops to the violence-stricken Bastar region. This strategic action is part of the Indian government's intensified efforts to eradicate Left Wing Extremism (LWE) by March 2026. The campaign, endorsed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, reflects the government’s determination to bring an end to the decades-long Maoist insurgency that has plagued the country’s central and eastern states.

The CRPF has withdrawn four battalions—three from Jharkhand and one from Bihar—where Naxal activity has decreased significantly in recent years. These battalions, comprising the 159, 218, 214, and 22 units, will now focus on Chhattisgarh’s most volatile zones. Bastar, particularly the districts of Dantewada and Sukma, has remained a hotspot for Naxal operations, making it the central theater for the upcoming decisive battle.

The CRPF, the nation’s lead internal security force, has built a network of forward operating bases (FOBs) over the past few years, securing key regions and enabling developmental initiatives to follow. However, setting up these bases in remote areas is risky, with frequent ambushes and improvised explosive device (IED) attacks by Naxal militants. To support these new deployments, the CRPF has bolstered its forces with armored vehicles, UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), and dog squads to navigate and secure these “no-go” areas.

One of the biggest challenges facing the security forces in Chhattisgarh is the hostile terrain of south Bastar, where Maoist militants often employ guerrilla tactics, taking advantage of the dense forests and difficult-to-access regions. These areas, located near the tri-junction border of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, have proven to be strongholds for Naxal fighters.

The CRPF has also activated its CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) units in these operations, reinforcing efforts to eliminate militant hideouts. These elite units, trained in jungle warfare, have been critical in previous anti-Naxal campaigns, and their role is expected to be pivotal in the upcoming actions.

However, this military push goes beyond just boots on the ground. The government has emphasized that infrastructure, particularly roads and helipads, will play a critical role in ensuring the success of these operations. Improved logistical capabilities are essential for maintaining the new positions in remote areas, allowing for faster troop movement, supply deliveries, and medical evacuations when necessary.

The Bastar region has long been the most dangerous zone for anti-Naxal operations, with security forces suffering heavy casualties over the years. Yet, the overall Naxal violence across the country has declined by more than 50% in the past decade. Between 2004 and 2014, India saw over 16,000 Naxal-related incidents; this number dropped to 7,696 in the following decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. Deaths due to Maoist violence have also seen a sharp decline—from 6,568 during 2004-14 to 1,990 in 2014-24.

While the government is optimistic about meeting the 2026 deadline, senior officials acknowledge that continuous resource support—both in terms of technology and manpower—will be crucial to maintaining momentum. Helicopter and drone support, in particular, are essential to cover the vast, rugged terrains where Naxals operate.

The CRPF’s top leadership is determined to lead the charge in this final push. Having already deployed around 40 battalions in Chhattisgarh, including the newly arrived troops, the force is now more committed than ever to hammering the "last nail in the coffin" of Left Wing Extremism. Recent operations have led to the deaths of over 150 Naxal militants in 2024 alone, a sign that the intensified efforts are already showing results.

With the Indian government setting its sights on a March 2026 deadline, this massive redeployment of CRPF troops marks a critical juncture in the fight against Naxalism. If successful, it will not only bring an end to one of the country’s longest-standing insurgencies but also pave the way for peace and development in the affected regions.