New Delhi, May 21 -- Security forces on Wednesday achieved 'historic success' as a top Naxal leader, Nambala Keshav Rao, alias Basavaraju, was eliminated along with 27 Naxalites in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region.

The encounter took place in dense forests of Abhujmad on the tri-junction of Narayanpur-Bijapur-Dantewada districts.

The operation was launched two days ago based on intelligence inputs about the presence of Central Committee and Politburo members of the Maoists.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah applauded security forces for neutralising 27 dreaded Maoists, including their top commander.

"A landmark achievement in the battle to eliminate Naxalism. Today, in an operation in Narayanpur, Chhattisgarh, our security for...