Tragic Loss: CoBRA Jawan Martyred in Intense Jharkhand Anti-Naxal Operation

A CoBRA commando tragically lost his life during an intense anti-naxal operation in Jharkhand’s Bokaro district on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The valiant jawan succumbed to a bullet injury sustained in a fierce encounter that also resulted in the neutralization of two Naxalites, including a prominent sub-zonal commander. This incident underscores the persistent dangers faced by security forces in their relentless efforts to curb extremism in the region.

Jharkhand Anti-Naxal Operation: The Encounter Details

• The gun battle erupted in the early hours of Wednesday, around 6:30 AM, in the dense Kashitand forest area within the Lugu hills, falling under the Jageshwar Bihar police station limits in Bokaro.
• The operation was a joint effort spearheaded by the Central Reserve Police Force’s elite 209 CoBRA unit, alongside local district police units.
• Security forces launched the offensive based on specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence and movement of Naxalites in the area.
• As the troops advanced, they were met with sudden and heavy gunfire from the insurgents, leading to a fierce exchange of fire.

Sacrifice and Success in Jharkhand Anti-Naxal Operation

• During the intense shootout, Constable Pranaveshwar Koch of the 209 CoBRA unit sustained a critical bullet injury to his head. Despite immediate evacuation efforts, which involved airlifting him to Ranchi for urgent medical attention, he tragically succumbed to his wounds before reaching the hospital. The nation mourns the loss of this brave son from Assam, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
• In a significant counter-response, security forces successfully neutralized two Naxalites. One of the slain insurgents was identified as Kunwar Manjhi, also known by his aliases Sahdeo Manjhi and Sade, a sub-zonal Naxal commander who carried a bounty on his head. An AK-47 rifle was also recovered from the encounter site, confirming the scale of the operation.
• The elimination of Kunwar Manjhi is a major blow to the extremist network in the region, particularly within the Lugu Pahar area, which has historically been considered a Naxal stronghold.

Intensified Jharkhand Anti-Naxal Operation Efforts

• Following the encounter, search operations have been intensified across the adjoining areas to track and neutralize any remaining Naxal cadres suspected to be hiding in the forest. Security forces are maintaining a high alert and continuing their coordinated efforts to ensure the complete dismantling of Naxal influence.
• This incident is part of a broader, intensified campaign by Jharkhand police and central security forces against Naxalism. Official reports indicate a notable increase in anti-Naxal operations and successes in recent months.
• Statistics reveal the significant progress: from January 1, 2025, to July 16, 2025, security forces have neutralized 21 Naxalites in 14 separate encounters across the state. This figure represents the highest number of Naxal fatalities compared to the last five years, demonstrating the enhanced pressure on extremist groups.
• The Union Home Ministry has also reiterated its resolve to eradicate Maoist extremism from India by March 2026, with states like Jharkhand playing a crucial role in achieving this national objective.

The loss of a CoBRA jawan is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by security personnel to ensure peace and stability. However, the successful neutralization of key Naxal operatives in this Jharkhand Anti-Naxal Operation reaffirms the unwavering commitment of India’s forces to combat insurgency and protect its citizens.