Assam: Maoist leader killed in encounter with security forces in Kokrajhar

A top Maoist leader, Epil Murmu alias Rohit Murmu, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Salakati, Kokrajhar, on Friday. The encounter occurred when security forces launched an operation in the Nadanguri hills after receiving a tip-off about Murmu's presence.

According to reports, Murmu was a wanted man in Jharkhand and had been involved in several incidents, including a similar rail line blast. Two days prior to the encounter, Maoists had exploded an IED on the railway track in Kokrajhar, prompting the Chief Minister to order a crackdown on those involved.

During the encounter, Murmu fired at the security forces who retaliated, injuring him critically. He was later declared dead at the Rupnath Brahma Civil Hospital.

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The security forces had been tracking Murmu for some time, and the encounter is seen as a significant success in the ongoing efforts to root out Maoist activity in the region.

The Chief Minister had stated that the Maoists involved in the IED blast would be identified and brought to justice. The killing of Rohit Murmu is a major breakthrough in this direction.

The security forces are continuing to investigate the incident and are working to gather more information about Murmu's activities and associates.

The incident has sent a strong message to Maoist groups in the region, and security forces are likely to intensify their operations to take out other top Maoist leaders.