IED threats rise in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand areas

Security forces in India are facing heightened threats from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Maoist areas. An alert was issued in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand due to a recent surge in IED blasts and discoveries. Officials noted the recovery of devices, including one made with beer bottles and a remote control system. The rise in IED usage coincides with increased operations by security forces aimed at eliminating Left Wing Extremism by March 2026. Forces are setting up new camps, especially in remote districts like Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, to confront these threats. Officials pointed out that Maoists are relying more on IEDs since they are running low on traditional weapons. Recent reports show a significant increase in IED incidents, prompting a "high alert" for security personnel. These attacks often happen as the Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign (TCOC) occurs in the summer months when visibility improves for ambushes. Data indicate that the distance of IED placements from security camps has decreased significantly. In the past, they were planted 3-7 kilometers away, but now they are found within 3 kilometers of security bases. Between 2022 and 2024, there was a 25% rise in such incidents. A worrying trend is the use of more advanced remote-controlled IEDs. These can be detonated from a distance, making them particularly dangerous. This shift in tactics has led to an increase in casualties among security forces, with over 100 major IED incidents reported this year alone. More than 70 forward operational bases have been established in the two states in the past year, most of them by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Recent attacks have resulted in fatalities, including several personnel from both the Chhattisgarh Police and CRPF. Overall, the situation remains tense as security forces push to meet their goals while facing an escalating threat from Maoist groups using increasingly sophisticated explosive devices.