Crackdown on Maoists: Around 200 arrested in six months, 17 killed in Jharkhand; manhunt on for 55, including top commander

NEW DELHI: The Jharkhand Police on Friday announced a large-scale manhunt to track down 55 active maoists, including several top commanders of the CPI (Maoist), who collectively carry a bounty of Rs 8.45 crore on their heads.

Addressing the media, Inspector General of Police (Operations) and Jharkhand Police spokesperson Michael S Raj said that an intensified anti-maoist operation has been under way across the state, which has led to the arrest of 197 maoists between January and June 2025. Among those arrested are two regional committee members, one zonal commander, one sub-zonal commander, and seven area commanders.

The official further stated that 10 maoists surrendered during this period, while 17 others were killed in encounters with security forces. Police have also recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition, including 31 weapons previously looted from security personnel.

"A massive search operation is ongoing to apprehend 55 wanted Maoists carrying a combined bounty of Rs 8.45 crore," said IG Raj, underlining the state’s commitment to rooting out maoists' presence.