UditVani, Jamshedpur/New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday visited the residence of CRPF Assistant Commandant Ajay Malik, who recently lost his leg in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast during a recent anti-Maoist operation in West Singhbhum’s Saranda forest.
The meeting was marked by a heartfelt exchange, as Rahul Gandhi praised the officer’s courage and sacrifice while assuring full support to him and his family.
Assistant Commandant Ajay Malik, an officer of 209 COBRA Battalion (CRPF), was critically injured in the operation against Maoist insurgents in the dense forest of Saranda and lost his left leg.
The blast occurred when security forces were conducting an anti-Naxal operation, a routine but highly risky task carried out by paramilitary forces in insurgency-affected region. The powerful explosion resulted in severe injuries to Malik, ultimately leading to the amputation of his left leg.
During his visit, Rahul Gandhi interacted with Malik and his family members, expressing deep respect for the bravery shown by the officer in the line of duty.
He commended the CRPF officer’s determination and resilience, stating that the sacrifices made by security personnel in protecting the nation must always be recognised and honoured.
According to sources present during the meeting, the Leader of Opposition enquired in detail about Malik’s health condition, medical treatment and rehabilitation process.
He also wished the officer a speedy recovery and appreciated his commitment to safeguarding the country despite the immense personal cost.
Notably , the CRPF has been actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations across several districts of Jharkhand, where Maoist activity has historically posed security challenges.
Incidents involving IED blasts remain one of the biggest threats faced by security forces during such operations.
The meeting between Rahul Gandhi and the injured officer has drawn attention to the risks faced by security personnel deployed in anti-Maoist operations and the sacrifices they make while protecting the nation.
Tactical Breakdown: The March 1st Operation
On March 1, 2026, a joint task force comprising the elite 209 CoBRA Battalion and Jharkhand Police executed a high-stakes sweep of the Saranda hills. Acting on intelligence regarding insurgent movements, the units were navigating the dense stronghold when a pressure-triggered IED—planted by Maoist cadres—detonated.
The Skirmish: The explosion triggered a firefight between security forces and insurgents, resulting in additional injuries to another personnel member.
Evacuation: Due to the severity of his wounds and the volatile terrain, Assistant Commandant Malik was emergency-airlifted via a BSF helicopter to RIMS Ranchi for specialized surgery.
Operational Context: This encounter underscores the extreme hazards of the Saranda region, where guerrilla tactics and booby traps remain a constant threat. The incident occurs amidst a broader 2026 offensive aimed at dismantling insurgent networks across Jharkhand.
