In a tragic accident that is indicative of the risks of counter-insurgency operations, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Giripunje was fatally injured on Monday morning by an improvised explosive device (IED) blast while on patrol in Maoist-hit Sukma district. the explosion happened at about 9 a.m. near Dondra village on the Konta–Errabore road, as Giripunje was accompanying a combined team of Chhattisgarh police and CRPF troopers. the team was responding to reported arson by Maoist groups in connection with a Bharat Bandh call. the IED detonated beneath the officer’s foot, indicating a deliberate ambush laid by Naxal cadres.
Blast in Deep Forested Country Side Claims Senior Officer's Life The incident unfolded in a remote and heavily forested region, known for frequent Maoist activity. According to police sources cited by The Indian Express and The Times of India, the IED was likely planted the night before under the mud road, which is regularly used by security forces. ASP Giripunje was rushed to Konta Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Two other officers, DSP Bhanu Pratap Chandrakar and Inspector Sonhal Gavla, were injured and airlifted to Raipur. Their conditions are reportedly stable. Security officials noted that the patrol team had conducted recent area checks, raising questions about detection equipment and real-time surveillance gaps.
Political Leaders Denounce Assault, Pay Homage to ASP Giripunje Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai strongly condemned the attack as a "cowardly act" that aimed to disturb law and order in the Bastar area. He condoled the family of the officer and promised stepped-up action against insurgents. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also mourned and promised extended support to Chhattisgarh's anti-Naxal operations. The IPS Association described Giripunje's death as a "deep loss" to the police community, noting his gallantry awards and impressive service record. The officer had resumed duty barely after celebrating his child's birthday, according to Hindustan Times, emphasising the personal sacrifices made by law enforcement officers.
Sukma’s Maoist Conflict: A Persisting Challenge Sukma, part of the infamous Red Corridor, has long been a focal point of Maoist activity. The region’s difficult terrain, poor road access, and dense forests provide a haven to insurgents. Attacks involving deep-buried IEDs have become a common tactic. Past incidents like the 2017 Burkapal ambush, in which 25 CRPF jawans were killed, reflect the continued threat level in this zone. The New Indian Express states that Naxals bury IEDs several feet below the ground these days, mostly beyond the power of traditional detection equipment, thus becoming even more difficult to detect.
Post-Blast Security Response and Operational Review Underway Following the blast, massive cordon-and-search operations were launched in the area, involving special task forces and drone surveillance units. The injured were quickly evacuated by air to ensure timely medical attention. Senior police officials have urgently reviewed standard operating procedures (SOPs) used in Maoist zones. According to The Wire, discussions are underway regarding upgraded mine detectors, real-time intelligence tools, and improved protective gear. The tragic loss of ASP Giripunje has triggered widespread calls for modernising counter-insurgency strategy, especially in vulnerable districts like Sukma.