In a significant breakthrough for anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand, two senior members of the outlawed Jharkhand Jan Mukti Parishad (JJMP) were killed in a fierce encounter with security forces early on the morning of May 24, 2025. The incident took place in the Latehar district, a known hotspot for Left-Wing Extremism in the state.

Among those gunned down was Pappu Lohra, the chief of JJMP, who was one of the most wanted Naxal figures in the region with a bounty of ₹10 lakh on his head. His close associate, Prabhat Ganjhu, also fell during the operation and carried a bounty of ₹5 lakh.

Joint Operation Based on Precise Intelligence

The joint operation, conducted by Jharkhand Police, CRPF, and special anti-Naxal units, was launched based on credible intelligence inputs about the movement and temporary camp of heavily armed JJMP cadres in the dense forested terrain of Latehar. Acting swiftly, the security forces closed in on the suspected location at dawn.

What ensued was a fierce gun battle, with security personnel facing stiff resistance from the insurgents. After sustained engagement, two Naxals were neutralised, later identified as Lohra and Ganjhu. Additionally, one more JJMP cadre was captured alive in an injured state, receiving immediate medical treatment under guard.

Arms Recovered, Search Ops Ongoing

An INSAS rifle, typically used by Naxal outfits after being looted from government forces, was recovered from the encounter site. Officials noted that this indicates continued efforts by splinter outfits to arm themselves despite significant crackdowns over recent years.

The encounter site, located deep in the forested zones of Latehar, remains under surveillance, and a search operation is ongoing to ensure no other operatives managed to escape. The terrain, thickly wooded and challenging, is being combed by specially trained jungle warfare units.

Who Was Pappu Lohra?

Pappu Lohra, the slain JJMP commander, was one of the most dreaded Naxal leaders in Jharkhand. Over the years, Lohra was associated with multiple extortion rackets, ambushes on security personnel, destruction of infrastructure, and civilian killings. He had been on the radar of law enforcement for over a decade and had previously evaded numerous attempts to capture him.

His death marks a major victory for security forces, especially in the context of Jharkhand’s ongoing struggle to curb insurgency and re-establish normalcy in red corridor districts.

Prabhat Ganjhu, the second casualty, was considered Lohra’s right-hand man and played a key logistical role in the group’s operations. His elimination is expected to cripple JJMP’s regional coordination significantly.

Significance of the Operation

This successful operation sends a strong message to other insurgent groups operating in Jharkhand and neighbouring regions such as Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. It also reflects the increased effectiveness of joint force coordination, intelligence sharing, and precision-based tactics used in anti-Naxal operations in recent years.

Authorities have confirmed that this operation is part of a larger, state-wide counter-insurgency push, especially after increasing reports of smaller splinter Naxal groups attempting to regroup post-COVID disruptions.

Government’s Stand on Naxalism

The Government of Jharkhand and the Ministry of Home Affairs have both reiterated their commitment to eliminating Left-Wing Extremism. While earlier years saw a sharp decline in Naxal incidents, recent developments indicate that smaller groups like JJMP and PLFI are trying to reclaim influence in certain districts.

In response, central and state forces have ramped up their presence, with a focus on technology-driven surveillance, community outreach, and development projects in affected areas to counter radicalisation.

Civilian Safety and Development Measures

While operations like these are crucial for the security of civilians living in affected regions, the government is also promoting rehabilitation schemes for surrendered militants and enhanced access to education, employment, and healthcare for local populations.

Officials stress that long-term peace in Jharkhand requires a dual-pronged approach: security enforcement and inclusive development.

Conclusion

The elimination of JJMP chief Pappu Lohra and his associate marks a decisive blow to extremist forces in Jharkhand. As anti-Naxal operations continue across Latehar and other districts, the focus remains on ensuring lasting peace and stability through a mix of tactical counter-insurgency measures and developmental outreach.

This successful encounter not only weakens the operational strength of JJMP but also reinforces public trust in security agencies, paving the way for sustained efforts to free the state from the shadows of Naxalism.

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