The District Reserve Guard (DRG), a highly trained and specialized unit of the Chhattisgarh Police, has cemented its position as a critical force in combating Naxal insurgency in the region. In a significant operation in September 2024, the DRG successfully neutralized nine Maoists in Dantewada, a district that remains a hotspot for Naxal activities.
The September Encounter:
Acting on intelligence reports, the DRG launched an operation in the dense forests of Dantewada. The Maoists, reportedly part of the banned CPI (Maoist) group, opened fire when cornered, leading to a fierce encounter. After hours of combat, nine Maoists were killed, and a cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the site.
Key Details of the Encounter:
- Location: The operation took place in the dense forested area of Palnar in Dantewada.
- Recovery: Multiple firearms, explosives, and Maoist literature were seized during the operation.
- Casualties: While there were no significant injuries to the DRG personnel, the operation dealt a severe blow to the Maoist network in the area.
What is the DRG?
The District Reserve Guard is a specialized unit of the Chhattisgarh Police, primarily composed of local tribal youth who are familiar with the region’s terrain and culture. This unique composition allows the DRG to conduct highly effective counter-insurgency operations in areas where conventional forces may face challenges.
Key Features of the DRG:
- Extensive training in jungle warfare and guerrilla tactics.
- Deep knowledge of local geography and community dynamics.
- Strong intelligence-gathering capabilities, often supported by local informants.
Impact of the DRG’s Operations:
The DRG’s operations have been instrumental in weakening the Maoist presence in Chhattisgarh. Over the past few years, the unit has carried out multiple successful missions, reducing the number of active Maoist cadres and disrupting their supply chains.
Statements and Reactions:
- Senior Police Official: “The DRG’s success in Dantewada is a testament to their training and dedication. They are the backbone of our anti-Naxal strategy.”
- Local Resident: “We feel safer knowing the DRG is actively working to eliminate the Naxal threat.”
- Critics: Some human rights organizations have called for increased transparency in operations to ensure civilian safety.
Broader Implications:
The success of the DRG underscores the importance of community-driven policing in tackling insurgency. By involving local youth, the Chhattisgarh Police have created a force that is both effective and deeply rooted in the state’s socio-cultural fabric.