Security forces are continuously searching around the encounter area.

Security forces have gunned down seven Naxalites along the Chhattisgarh–Andhra Pradesh border, where an intense encounter unfolded for the second consecutive day. Among those reportedly killed is top CPI (Maoist) Politburo member and Naxal “General Secretary” Devji, though official confirmation is awaited. Three of the slain Naxalites are women. Bodies and weapons were recovered from the spot; four of the seven have been identified.

The encounter took place in the same dense forest zone where, on November 18, dreaded Naxal commander Madvi Hidma was killed. Security agencies had received intelligence inputs indicating Devji’s presence in the region, prompting a special forces team to move in.

Hidma, his wife Raje alias

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