In recent decades, the conflict in Bastar, a region known for its dense forests and Maoist insurgency, has been significantly shaped by a prominent figure, Hidma. Initially taking command of Company Number 3 in 2007, he rose through the ranks to become the deputy commander of Battalion 1 by 2009, subsequently taking full command that same year. Under Hidma's leadership, Battalion 1 gained notoriety for executing some of the most brutal assaults against security forces, including a devastating ambush in 2010 that resulted in the deaths of 76 security personnel. This incident marked one of the deadliest Maoist attacks in history and cemented Hidma's status as one of the top targets for law enforcement agencies.
Despite ongoing efforts, the security forces struggled to capture Hidma due to the challenging terrain of south Bastar, which provided a strategic advantage for him and his battalion of approximately 250 fighters. Frustration mounted within the police ranks as they often found themselves just kilometers away from Hidma, only to be thwarted by local militia who would alert him to the approach of security forces. The lack of an effective police presence within the vast forest areas of Bijapur and Sukma, spanning several states, allowed Battalion 1 to operate with relative freedom.
From 2016 to 2021, Hidma's involvement in violent conflicts with law enforcement surged, with over 12 reported exchanges of fire. Despite conducting more than 50 operations aimed at capturing him, the security forces faced numerous setbacks. Hidma demonstrated tactical acumen, utilizing guerrilla warfare techniques to ambush fatigued security personnel in the forest. The need for tactical adjustments led to a shift in operation strategies, which involved undertaking shorter missions to enhance the safety and effectiveness of the forces.
A pivotal turn in the campaign against Hidma came with the establishment of security camps deeper within the jungle in 2017. This strategic shift allowed law enforcement to infiltrate areas previously deemed inaccessible, enabling them to disrupt the support systems that local villages provided to Hidma’s group. In response, Hidma fragmented his battalion to adapt to the intensified operations, making him increasingly vulnerable.
Nevertheless, the conflict persisted, highlighted by a tragic ambush in 2021 where 22 jawans lost their lives. The turning point emerged in January 2024, when a confrontation in Tekalgudem resulted in substantial losses on both sides, marking the beginning of the end for Hidma’s entrenched position. While security forces managed to inflict damage upon Hidma’s battalion, the challenges of engagement and his strategic withdrawals felt taxing on law enforcement efforts. The Inspector General of Police noted that ongoing military pressure forced Hidma into a defensive position, severely limiting his operational capability.
In conclusion, the saga of Hidma in Bastar illustrates the complexities of counterinsurgency operations where dense foliage, local support mechanisms, and evolving strategies play crucial roles in the outcomes of such engagements. As security forces adapt and configure their methodologies, the battle against insurgency in regions like Bastar continues to unfold, with Hidma’s previous dominance now under severe threat.