Indian security forces on Monday eliminated at least eight armed rebels called Naxalites in the eastern state of Jharkhand, Xinhua news agency quoted local police as saying.

Security personnel recovered two rifles, several small arms, a handgun and eight locally made shotguns from the scene.

The clash between Indian security personnel and armed rebels began early morning in Bokaro district of Jharkhand state.

Claiming to be fighting for the rights of local tribals, the Naxalites have been active in several Indian states for decades.