Bijapur: Indian forces have killed 12 tribal community men in the disturbed Chhattisgarh state of India. The incident occurred during a military operation in the Bijapur district, intensifying the ongoing conflict in the region.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the Indian troops carried out the killings during a cordon and search operation (CASO) conducted in the forests of south Bijapur. The operation is part of a broader security effort in the area, often marred by tensions between government forces and local communities.

Indian police officials, through a statement, claimed that the individuals killed were Naxalites, a term used by the government to describe militants involved in an ongoing insurgency. The officials indicated that the operation is still active in the region, suggesting further potential confrontations.

This latest incident brings the total number of tribal men killed in similar operations in Chhattisgarh to 26 this month, including two women. Indian forces have consistently identified these individuals as Naxalites, though local and international observers often contest these claims, citing concerns over human rights and the targeting of indigenous communities.