Jharkhand News : After intensified operations in the Saranda region, security forces have now launched a large-scale anti-Maoist operation in the Dalma Forest of East Singhbhum district. More than 300 personnel from the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) and the Jharkhand Jaguar are searching for two wanted Maoists—Asim Mondal, who carries a ₹1 crore bounty, and Ramprasad Mardy, who has a ₹15 lakh bounty.
The operation began early Friday morning, with security personnel cordoning off dense forest areas and conducting intensive search operations. Surveillance has also been strengthened along routes connected to the forest, particularly near the Jharkhand–West Bengal border.
Shift to Dalma After Pressure in Saranda
Security officials said sustained operations in the Saranda and Kolhan regions—including Operation Medhaburu—have significantly weakened Maoist groups. In recent encounters, several senior Maoists, including Anal Da, who also carried a ₹1 crore reward, were killed.
Based on intelligence inputs, security agencies believe that Akash and Sachin have shifted their base to the Dalma forests. They are suspected to be hiding in forested areas bordering Bodam, Patamda, and Seraikela-Kharsawan.
First Large-Scale Operation in Dalma
According to security agencies, this is the largest joint anti-Maoist operation ever conducted in the Dalma region. The hilly and densely forested terrain has long been considered a safe hideout for Maoist cadres. Troops are thoroughly searching suspected hideouts and movement routes.
Officials believe that if Akash and Sachin are captured or neutralized during the operation, it would deal a major blow to the Maoist network operating in East Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan.
Appeal to Surrender
Police have appealed to Maoist cadres to lay down their arms, surrender, and take advantage of the government’s rehabilitation policy. Security forces have also warned that any armed resistance during the operation will be met with strict action.
