Context
According to reports, Maoist leader Koteshwar Rao alias Kishenji was killed on Thursday evening in an encounter in the Praschim Medinipur district. Member of The Communist Party of India is believed to have been killed by police in a heavy exchange of fire in a forested area.
“A body was found with an AK-47 and a hearing aid beside. We suspect that the AK-47 was probably used by Kishenji, but cannot comment until the identification is complete,” said Director-General of Police Naparajit Mukherjee. Inspector-General (Western Range) Gangeshwar Singh said officials were waiting for confirmation of the identity of the body. Reports suggest Maoist Suchitra Mahato, wife of Sasadhar Mahato was also injured in the encounter.
Kishenji was responsible for leading Maoist operations in West Bengal’s Jangalmahal region. His death, if confirmed, would serve as an immense blow to the Maoist group.
