Bhubaneswar: A fierce exchange of fire took place between security forces and Maoists in the border areas of Ganjam and Kandhamal districts this afternoon. The encounter left an SOG jawan, Premsingh Majhi, seriously injured. Majhi sustained bullet wounds to his left hand and stomach, with a bullet still lodged in his stomach.
According to reports, security forces received information about the Maoist movement in the border forests of Bhanjanagar in Ganjam district and Raikia block in Kandhamal district. An SOG team launched a search operation, which led to a confrontation with the Maoists. The security forces opened fire, prompting the Maoists to retaliate, injuring Majhi.
The injured jawan was rescued and initially treated at the primary health centre in Indragarh, Raikia, before being shifted to the Bhanjanagar sub-divisional hospital. Medical sources have indicated that he may be referred to MKCG Medical College in Berhampur if necessary.
At the time of filing the report, security forces were continuing their search operation. The Maoists fled into the dense forest. The situation remains tense. Operations have been intensified.