A senior police officer, ASP Akash Rao Giripunje, was martyred in an IED blast triggered by Naxalites in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. Several other police personnel were also injured in the explosion near Dondra village. The blast took place during a patrol on Monday morning, between 9 and 10 am, as the police were on alert due to a bandh called by the Naxals. ASP Giripunje, who suffered critical injuries, died during treatment at Konta Hospital. Search operations have been launched in the area following the attack. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the state’s anti-Naxal operations. Deputy CM Vijay Shamra mourned the loss, highlighting Giripunje’s bravery and service.