An IED (Improvised Explosive Device) blast in the insurgency-hit Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh has injured three villagers on Friday, May 30, 2025. The incident occurred in the morning near Bandepara village, which falls within the Madded police station limits, a region known for its persistent Maoist activities.
The injured villagers have been identified as Gote Joga (45), Vivek Dhodi (17), and Badde Sunil (20), all residents of Erragufa Para, Dampaaya. According to police reports, the victims were walking to Bandepara for personal errands when they inadvertently stepped on a pressure-activated IED, allegedly planted by Maoist insurgents. The explosion caused serious injuries to their legs and faces.
Upon receiving information about the blast, emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene. An ambulance was sent to provide immediate medical assistance and evacuate the injured villagers to a district hospital for treatment. Local authorities and police officials are coordinating efforts to ensure the victims receive the necessary care and support.
This recent attack underscores the ongoing threat posed by Maoist insurgents in the Bastar region, where IEDs are frequently used to target security forces and disrupt the daily lives of local communities. Innocent villagers often find themselves caught in the crossfire, making them the most vulnerable victims of this violence.
Security forces have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the source of the IED and identify those responsible for planting it. Patrolling has been intensified in the area to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety and security of civilians. The Bastar region is currently on high alert following reports of a significant explosives theft in neighboring Odisha, where suspected Maoists looted 5000 kg of explosive material. Authorities fear these explosives could be used to তৈরি IEDs targeting security personnel and civilians alike.
The incident has sparked condemnation from local authorities, who have described it as another act of cowardice by Maoist insurgents, deliberately targeting innocent villagers to instill fear. The local administration has urged villagers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies.
The attack highlights the persistent security challenges in insurgency-affected areas and the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to protect residents from such acts of violence. Efforts are being made to improve awareness and safety protocols within the community.
The Bijapur district, along with Kanker, Narayanpur, Sukma in Chhattisgarh, West Singhbhum in Jharkhand, and Gadchiroli in Maharashtra, has been identified as one of the "most affected" by Naxalism. The government has pledged to end Naxalism by early 2026 and has launched massive anti-Maoist operations in the region.
