Maoist IED blast claims young tribal life in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur

A young tribal life was cut short in a chilling reminder of the civilian cost of Left-wing extremism, after a 20-year-old villager was killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast planted by Maoists in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district.

The incident occurred on Sunday in Kasturipad village under the Usur police station limits when Ayta Kuharami, a local resident, ventured into a nearby forest area. According to police officials, his foot accidentally stepped on a pressure-activated IED planted by Maoists, leading to a powerful explosion that grievously injured both his legs. Despite being rushed for medical treatment, the youth succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

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The death of Ayta Kuharami, son of Budhra Kuharami, has plunged the village into mourning and left the family devastated. Residents said such forest routes are routinely used by villagers for daily livelihood activities, making the presence of hidden explosives particularly dangerous.

In the aftermath of the blast, security forces launched intensive search and sanitisation operations in the surrounding forested area. Bomb disposal squads have been deployed to detect and neutralise any unexploded devices, amid fears of further threats to civilians.

Police officials reiterated that Maoists often plant IEDs to target security forces, but innocent villagers are frequently the ones who fall victim. The administration has issued an appeal urging residents to remain extremely cautious while entering forests and interior areas and to immediately report any suspicious objects or movements to the nearest police station or security camp. Authorities said operations against Maoist violence will continue with renewed focus on preventing civilian casualties and restoring safety in affected tribal regions.