Two Former Maoists Killed in Shootout Between Rival Groups in Jharkhand’s Chatra

Chatra — Two former Maoists were killed and two others critically injured following a violent clash involving gunfire between rival groups in Gendra village under the Kunda police station area of Jharkhand’s Chatra district, police said on Monday.

The incident occurred late on Sunday night, triggering fear and tension among local residents. The deceased were identified as Devendra Ganjhu and Churaman Ganjhu.

Preliminary police investigations indicate that both groups involved in the clash were earlier linked to the banned Maoist organisation Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC). According to officials, around midnight, Devendra Ganjhu arrived at the house of Shyam Bhokta along with several associates. A heated argument reportedly broke out over a long-standing dispute, which soon escalated into violence.

Police said that Devendra Ganjhu and his associates allegedly opened fire, seriously injuring Shyam Bhokta and his brother-in-law, Gopal Ganjhu. In the retaliatory firing that followed, Devendra Ganjhu and Churaman Ganjhu were killed on the spot.

After receiving information, senior police officials from Kunda and Lovalong police stations, along with Simaria police and personnel of the SSB’s 35th Battalion, rushed to the scene and brought the situation under control. The bodies were sent for post-mortem examination.

The injured were initially admitted to the Pratapgarh Community Health Centre and later referred to Daltonganj before being shifted to RIMS, Ranchi. Doctors said both remain in critical condition.

Police said the clash appears to be the result of an old rivalry and power struggle among former TPC members. Devendra Ganjhu had 36 criminal cases registered against him, while Shyam Bhokta was also a former member of the banned outfit. Security has been tightened in the area, and investigations are ongoing.

With inputs from IANS