Inspector Ashish Sharma, a notable member of the Madhya Pradesh Police’s elite anti-Naxal unit, the Hawk Force, was killed in action during a joint security operation against Maoist insurgents in the forests of Chhattisgarh’s Rajnandgaon district. The encounter unfolded on November 19, 2025, following intelligence reports of a heavily armed Maoist group in the Kurzher-Bortalab area, located near the borders of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra.
A combined force, comprising personnel from the Madhya Pradesh Hawk Force, Chhattisgarh Police, and Maharashtra commandos, initiated the mission. Inspector Sharma, known for his leadership and bravery, led his team into a fierce firefight, during which he sustained critical bullet wounds to his thigh and abdomen. Despite immediate medical assistance and efforts to airlift him for advanced care, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
At approximately 40 years of age and originally from Bohani village in Narsinghpur district, Sharma was the son of a farmer and had gained significant respect within the police force. He had been recognized for his courage with two gallantry medals for his involvement in perilous anti-Maoist operations. Colleagues remembered him as a capable and fearless leader, often assigned to the most challenging missions in Naxal-influenced regions.
The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “Inspector Ashish Sharma made the supreme sacrifice while combating Naxals. I pay my humble tributes to this brave son of the soil and extend condolences to his bereaved family.” Senior police officials, including Special Director General (Naxal Operations) Pankaj Srivastva, acknowledged the considerable loss to the Hawk Force, stressing Sharma’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding vulnerable communities in areas affected by Maoist activity.
The operation highlights the ongoing struggles faced by security forces combating left-wing extremism in central India’s forested landscapes. Although the encounter resulted in the recovery of various weapons and materials, details regarding casualties among the Maoists are still being verified.
Inspector Sharma’s death has prompted a wave of tributes on social media and from official channels. Many have emphasized the need for greater recognition of the sacrifices made by security personnel in internal security missions. It was also revealed that Sharma was in the months leading up to his wedding, adding a poignant note to the nation’s loss.
The Hawk Force, tasked with specialized counter-insurgency operations, remains a vital player in the ongoing anti-Naxal campaigns, working alongside central paramilitary units to address the threat posed by Maoist insurgencies.
