Only 2 Commanders and 150 Armed Naxals Remain: 2025 Proves Harsh for Maoists in Bastar

Bastar, Chhattisgarh: The once-formidable stronghold of Naxalites in Bastar is witnessing a dramatic decline. According to security officials, the Maoist network in the region has now been reduced to just two commanders and around 150 armed members. This significant setback comes as a result of the central government’s comprehensive anti-Maoist strategy, spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah.

Bastar, historically considered an impregnable hub of Maoist activity, is now at the brink of a historic turning point. The main leadership of the Maoist organization has dwindled to Barse Deva and West Bastar Division Secretary Paparao, with only 130–150 active armed cadres remaining, as confirmed by IG Bastar, Sundarraj P.

The decline began after a series of decisive actions, including the deadly attack by Hirdma’s violent squad in Tekulgudem on 3rd April 2021, which claimed 21 security personnel. Following this, Home Minister Amit Shah visited Bastar and vowed to eliminate Maoist violence completely.

2025 has proven to be the most challenging year for the Maoists. From the killing of the top insurgent Basvaraju early in the year to the surrender of key members—including Polit Bureau member Bhupati, CRB chief, and Central Committee member Rupesh along with 261 Maoists—the Maoist network’s backbone has been effectively broken.

The death of the notorious strategist Madvi Hirdma in Andhra Pradesh further shattered the morale of the organization. Within just 10 days of Hirdma’s death, 209 Maoists, including senior figures such as Southwest Bastar Division Secretary Muchaki Erra, Darbha Division Head G. Pavandam Reddy (aka Shyam Dada), and MMC Special Zonal Committee member Anant Nagpure, surrendered to the authorities, handing over their weapons.

With leadership and manpower severely depleted, the remaining Maoists face only two choices: surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society, or meet the fate of their fallen commanders Basvaraju and Hirdma.

The year 2025 stands as a landmark in India’s fight against Maoist insurgency, demonstrating the effectiveness of strategic counterinsurgency operations and unwavering political will.