Maharashtra: 15 security personnel, 1 driver killed in blast triggered by Maoists in Gadchiroli

The blast occurred when the security personnel were reportedly out on an operation.

A landmine blast was carried out in the area when the vehicle carrying the security personnel was passing through the Dadapur Road in Gadchiroli district, reports said.

The explosion has been carried out weeks after an IED blast took place near a polling booth in Gadchiroli on Apr 11 when the country was voting in the first phase of General Elections.

Speaking to reporters, Subodh Jaiswal, DGP Maharashtra, said operation is going on in the area to ensure no more casualty occurs.

"We are prepared to give a befitting reply to this attack. We will take whatever action is required. Losing 15 of the jawans was big loss for us," he said.

Indian politicians condemn attack:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack and said the sacrifice of the security personnel will not be forgotten.

"Strongly condemn the despicable attack on our security personnel in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. I salute all the brave personnel. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten. My thoughts & solidarity are with the bereaved families. The perpetrators of such violence will not be spared," Modi tweeted.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh described the attack on the security forces as a 'cowardly' act.

"Attack on Maharashtra Police personnel in Gadchiroli is an act of cowardice and desperation. We are extremely proud of the valour of our police personnel. Their supreme sacrifice while serving the nation will not go in vain. My deepest condolences to their families," he said.

He said: "Spoke to Maharashtra CM Shri @Dev_Fadnavis regarding the tragic incident in Gadchiroli and expressed my grief at the loss of brave Police personnel. We are providing all assistance needed by the state government. MHA is in constant touch with the state administration. "

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis said he has spoken with Singh over the attack.

"I strongly condemn this attack and we will fight this menace with even more and stronger efforts. I also spoke to Hon Union Home Minister @rajnathsingh ji and briefed him about the situation in Maharashtra," the CM tweeted.

Reacting to the incident, Union Home MInister Arun Jaitley tweeted: "Naxal attack on security personnel in #Gadchiroli Maharashtra is a highly condemnable cowardice act. My thoughts are with the families of brave personnel who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Perpetrators of this heinous act will not go unpunished."

Earlier on Wednesday, Maoists had set 27 machines and vehicles on fire in the same district. 

The attack in Gadchiroli took place at a time when the country is gearing up for voting in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha Polls.