Mumbai: A confrontation in Maharashtra resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including one identified as Laxman Atram alias Vishal Atram, by Indian police and paramilitary forces in the Gadchiroli district, close to the Chhattisgarh border.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the incident, described by officials as a heavy exchange of fire, lasted for six hours in Wandoli village. Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police, Nilotpal, labeled the deceased as Naxalites and claimed the firefight involved C60 commandos. In the aftermath, Maharashtra Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a Rs 51 lakh reward for the participating commando teams and police for their role in the operation.
This event highlights the ongoing conflict in regions like Maharashtra and neighboring states where Naxalite influence is significant, with local tribal communities and other marginalized groups often caught in the crossfire of these engagements.