Jharkhand Launches Major Anti-Naxal Operation With 10,000 Personnel In Saranda Forests

In a major escalation of anti-Naxal operations, Jharkhand Police have deployed nearly 10,000 security personnel to intensify the search for an estimated 20 to 25 Maoists still believed to be hiding in the dense Saranda forests of West Singhbhum. The large-scale operation comes even after the recent surrender of 25 Maoists in the region, underscoring the state’s continued push to eliminate remaining insurgent presence in one of India’s most challenging forest terrains.

Security forces, including units from the Jharkhand Armed Police, Jharkhand Jaguars, COBRA battalions, CRPF, and local police teams, have been conducting coordinated operations across the forested belt. Officials said multiple companies have been strategically deployed in and around Saranda to tighten surveillance and block possible escape routes. The rugged landscape, thick forest cover, and limited accessibility continue to make the region a difficult operational zone for ground forces.

According to intelligence inputs cited by officials, nearly 20 to 22 Maoists, including around 15 wanted insurgents, are reportedly attempting to evade capture by moving deeper into the forest. Among them are individuals carrying significant rewards on their heads, including two top leaders with bounties of up to ₹1 crore each. Authorities believe the recent wave of surrenders has weakened the remaining group’s morale, but they have not yet laid down arms.

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Jharkhand Police Inspector General (Operations) Narendra Singh said the ongoing operation is progressing steadily and that security forces have effectively encircled suspected Maoist hideouts. He added that continuous combing operations are being carried out to track down the remaining insurgents. Singh also urged the remaining cadres to surrender, stating that most senior Maoist leaders in the region have already been neutralised, arrested, or have given up arms.

Officials further noted that intelligence agencies have mapped possible movement routes, weapons inventory, and local support networks of the remaining Maoists. The Saranda and Kolhan forest belts have been placed under heightened surveillance, with aerial monitoring and ground cordons strengthened to prevent escape. Authorities said that the coordinated strategy is aimed at cutting off logistical support and forcing surrender rather than prolonged confrontation where possible.

The intensified crackdown follows a series of recent encounters and surrenders that have significantly reduced Maoist strength in the region. Officials said at least 22 Maoists have been killed in encounters in 2026 so far, with Saranda witnessing some of the most intense operations. Security agencies believe the current phase of action could further weaken the insurgent network, though they caution that the remaining militants are still attempting to navigate difficult terrain to avoid capture.

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