Chhattisgarh, March 20 -- Security forces in Chhattisgarh dealt a major blow to left-wing terrorism by eliminating 24 Maoists in a fierce encounter at the Dantewada-Bijapur border on Thursday.

Acting on intelligence inputs regarding a significant Maoist presence in the Gangaloor region, joint forces launched an operation that led to a prolonged exchange of fire. The bodies of all slain Maoists have been recovered, while one District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan, Raju Oyami, was martyred.

The encounter is ongoing, with intermittent gunfire reported from both sides. Bastar Inspector General Sundarraj P confirmed that security forces have penetrated deep into the Maoist stronghold, while Bijapur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Yadav stated ...