Barwani SP Honored with President’s Gallantry Medal for Bravery Against Naxalites

On the eve of Independence Day, Puneet Gehlot, the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Barwani, Madhya Pradesh, received the prestigious President’s Gallantry Medal from the Ministry of Home Affairs. This recognition comes in light of his extraordinary bravery during his tenure in Balaghat, where he commanded the special unit known as 'Hawk Force,' dedicated to combating Naxalism. In November 2022, SP Gehlot led a critical operation that resulted in the neutralization of two notorious Naxalites, Rajesh Vajjam and Ganesh Madavi, both of whom had bounties totaling Rs 4.9 crore on their heads. During a jungle search operation, Gehlot and his team faced an ambush from over two dozen Naxalites. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, he ensured the safety of his squad, with no injuries reported among the police officers. The operation not only eliminated high-profile targets but also resulted in the seizure of a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and Naxal documents, including the rifle belonging to Naxal commander Ganesh Madavi. In recognition of these accomplishments, the Hawk Force unit was also awarded the 'Pride of Madhya Pradesh Award' by Governor Mangubhai Patel. Following the announcement of his award, officers and staff from the Barwani police department extended their congratulations to SP Gehlot, celebrating his remarkable achievements in the fight against Naxalism in the region.