Authorities in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district have reported the death of a BJP worker, Satyam Punem, who was allegedly strangled by Naxalites late Monday night. The victim was found in the Mujalkanker locality, under the jurisdiction of Ilmidi police. Officials suspect the Maoists targeted Punem due to his alleged role as a police informer. A police contingent has been dispatched to the scene to commence the investigation into this suspected act of political violence.
A recovered pamphlet, allegedly authored by the Maoist Madded area committee, has shed light on the purported motive. The document asserts that Punem had ignored explicit warnings and continued to pass information to the police. Police investigations are based on the claims made in this pamphlet, which suggests Punem had been cautioned multiple times.
The Bastar region, which includes Bijapur, continues to grapple with significant Naxalite insurgency. This year alone, the division has witnessed approximately 40 deaths stemming from Maoist-related violence, highlighting the persistent security challenges. The government is under pressure to address the ongoing threats to public safety and political stability.
This incident is not isolated. The region has a grim history of targeting political figures. In the preceding two years (January 2023 – December 2024), the Bastar division has seen the deaths of 11 BJP leaders and workers due to Maoist violence. Past incidents, such as the 2023 killing of former BJP Mandal General Secretary Birjhu Taram, demonstrate the brutal tactics employed by these groups. The recurring attacks raise concerns about the protection afforded to political representatives in Maoist-affected areas.
