Internal Security Division (under which ANF comes) IGP Roopa D Moudgil interacts with Anti Naxal Force personnel at near Peetebailu village, Kabbinale area near Hebri of Udupi, where Naxal leader Vikram Gowda killed in an encounter.
Credit: DH Photo
Udupi: Karnataka's Internal Security Division DGP Pronab Mohanty said on Wednesday that the killing of Naxal leader Vikram Gowda by the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) was a last-resort action during a "chance encounter".
Speaking to reporters, Mohanty stated that the encounter occurred between 5:45 and 6 pm on Monday. "Maoist, led by Gowda, were the first to open the fire. The incident happened on the verandah of a house. We initially offered them an opportunity to surrender, but they continued firing. Our personnel had no choice but to retaliate,” he said. Gowda sustained severe injuries on his chest and stomach during the encounter.
According to Mohanty, three to four individuals were with Gowda during the exchange of fire. Gowda was armed with a CQB submachine gun—a highly dangerous weapon—along with a .38 pistol, a knife, and a spoon. Money was also recovered from him. Mohanty clarified that the operation occurred in the dark and involved only a brief exchange of gunfire.
Gowda was reportedly high on the ANF's (Anti-Naxal Force) priority list, with 114 cases against him under various laws, including the Arms Act, the Terrorism Act, murder, and extortion. Mohanty said extortion served as the primary source of funding for Naxalite activities.
When asked about the reports of Gowda potentially planning to surrender, Mohanty denied having any such information. He added that the ANF had been tracking Gowda for over a decade and would not have mistaken him for anyone else.
The encounter involved 12 ANF personnel. The first case against Vikram Gowda was reportedly filed in 2003. Mohanty revealed that combing operations are ongoing in different parts of the district. The house where the encounter took place, owned by Jayant Gowda, will be returned to the family after the investigation is completed. Local police will provide full security to ensure the safety of villagers in the area.
The DGP reiterated the Karnataka government's commitment to its fair and equitable surrender policy, which aims to reintegrate Naxalites into mainstream society. “Confidence-building measures are in place for those who surrender,” he said.
Mohanty noted that Naxalites are not static and they are always moving and are active in the Malnad region and the tri-zone area of neighbouring states. According to available intelligence, most Naxalites in the region are locals. He added that there is one active team in Chikkamagaluru, though it is unclear if they are all operating together.
Praising the actions of the ANF, Mohanty commended the team’s professionalism and dedication during the operation.