Maoist IED Blast Kills ASP in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma, Sparks Security Alert Ahead of Bandh

Sukma, Chhattisgarh – June 9, 2025: In a deadly escalation of Naxal violence, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Giripunje was killed and two security personnel were critically injured after a Maoist-triggered improvised explosive device (IED) blast struck a patrolling team in the Sukma district on Monday.

Details of the Incident

The blast occurred in the remote Kistaram area of Sukma, a region long considered a Maoist stronghold. According to officials, the patrol was en route for a routine combing operation when the IED, likely buried beneath a dirt track, detonated near their vehicle.

ASP Giripunje, a 2014-batch officer, died on the spot due to the intensity of the explosion. The injured personnel have been airlifted to Raipur for urgent medical treatment.

Pre-Bandh Tensions High

The incident comes just one day ahead of a state-wide bandh (strike) called by Maoist outfits on June 10, meant to protest recent arrests and combing operations in southern Chhattisgarh. Police believe the attack was intended to send a message and disrupt security preparations for the anticipated unrest.

Government and Public Reaction

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai condemned the attack, offering condolences to the officer’s family. “We will not bow down to violence. Those responsible will be brought to justice,” he said in a statement.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reacted via social media, calling Giripunje a “brave son of India” and assured full support for anti-Naxal operations.

Security forces across Bastar, Dantewada, and Bijapur have been placed on high alert. Drone surveillance and road-clearing operations have intensified, especially along known Maoist corridors.

A Grim Reminder

The attack underscores the persistent threat posed by Maoist groups, especially in forested tribal regions. According to the South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP), over 90 security personnel have lost their lives in Maoist-related incidents in the past two years across India.

The incident also revives concerns about the slow pace of development and limited intelligence infrastructure in conflict zones like Sukma.