India: Deadly Maoist attack in Chhattisgarh May 20

Event

A mine or improvised explosive device (IED) blast killed at least seven policemen in Chhattisgarh on Sunday, May 20. According to local sources the incident occurred near the village of Cholnar, in the Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh state. According to a police spokesperson, Maoists insurgents were present near the location of the blast. Additional Maoist militant attacks are possible in Chhattisgarh and other Indian states affected by the ongoing insurgency in the coming weeks.

Context

Violent Maoist insurgents (Naxalites) have been active for several decades in rural areas of the states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkand, Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal, as well as in the border region around Andra Pradesh. For this reason, the Odisha government has imposed major restrictions on the movement of foreign tourists in rural areas. 

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Remain vigilant for potential militant activity, particularly if planning on traveling to rural areas of the abovementioned states.