Maoists In Chhattisgarh: Are They Printing And Using Fake Currency In Markets?

An anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district has uncovered a significant threat to the local economy. For the first time, security forces have discovered equipment used to print fake currency in Maoist camps, raising concerns about the impact on local markets.

The discovery was made during a joint search operation by Sukma Police, District Reserve Guard, and the CRPF in the forests of Korajguda. The operation was based on intelligence inputs about Maoists printing counterfeit currency in the forest. Although the rebels managed to escape, security forces seized currency printing machines, ink, templates, and fake notes in denominations of ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, and ₹500. They also found a gun, a wireless set, and a large quantity of explosives.

District police chief Kiran Chavan explained that the ongoing security operations have severely disrupted the Maoists’ cash flow, forcing them to resort to printing counterfeit currency. “The way they are printing notes indicates a significant money shortage. The ongoing operations in the interior areas have significantly reduced their funding,” Chavan said.

Maoists frequently purchase supplies from weekly village markets, and their use of fake currency in these transactions could destabilize the local economy. In response, local authorities and security forces are launching awareness campaigns in villages, urging residents to be vigilant and reject any suspicious currency. Traders and hawkers, particularly those in remote areas, are being advised to carefully check notes before accepting them.

Since 2022, Maoists have reportedly adopted the tactic of printing fake currency to address their cash crunch. Sources indicate that at least one member from each area committee was trained to produce fake notes, which were then circulated in local markets, integrating into the cash system.