In an effort to eradicate Naxal influence from Jharkhand, security forces launched a search operation in Palamu district. Acting on intelligence about TSPC commander Shashikant Ganjhu, who has a bounty of 10 lakhs on his head, the Palamu police initiated a raid in the Manatu police station area. The commander was reportedly at his home in the village of Kadel to celebrate the Karma festival.
As the police cordoned off the area, a fierce gun battle erupted. Two police personnel, identified as Sunil Ram and Santan Mehta, were killed in the encounter. Another police officer, Rohit Kumar, sustained injuries. The injured officer is currently receiving medical attention. Following the encounter, a comprehensive search operation has been launched, and the area has been sealed off.