Twelve Maoist cadres from the South Sub-Zonal bureau surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region. This surrender took place under the state government’s ‘Poona Margem: Rehabilitation to Rejuvenation’ initiative, symbolizing a new era of trust and mainstream integration. The surrendered group consisted of eight female and four male cadres who handed over arms, including AK-47 and SLR rifles, along with ammunition.
A total reward of Rs 54 lakh had been announced for these cadres based on their positions and roles within the banned CPI (Maoist) organization. They also voluntarily surrendered additional explosive materials, including 250 gelatin sticks, 400 detonators, gunpowder, and cordex wire. Among the surrendered cadres was Somdu Madkam, a 42-year-old Darbha Division DVCM and Katekalyan Area Committee in-charge, who laid down an AK-47 and one magazine.
Notable surrenders included Hungi Kunjam alias Soni, a 19-year-old battalion No 1 Party Member with an Rs 8 lakh reward, Payki Kunjam, a 22-year-old company No. 02 Party Member with an Rs 8 lakh reward, and Ayati Madkam alias Punni, a 24-year-old North Sub Zonal Bureau PPCM with a Rs 5 lakh prize. Several area committee members, party members, and PLGA members also surrendered, with rewards ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.
The surrender took place in the presence of Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P, and other senior officials. Necessary legal processes for the rehabilitation and reintegration of the surrendered cadres into society are in progress. This development is seen as a significant achievement in the ongoing anti-Maoist campaign.
Since January 1, 2024, in Bijapur district alone, 888 Maoists have returned to the mainstream, 1,163 have been arrested, and 231 have been killed in encounters. The state government’s strategy, which combines security operations, dialogue, development initiatives, and attractive rehabilitation packages, has been effective in reducing the influence of violence. This has provided opportunities for progress and replaced fear with hope.
The increasing trend of surrenders is attributed to sustained pressure from security forces, the establishment of camps in remote areas, and the success of ‘Poona Margem’. This initiative has encouraged many cadres across Bastar to renounce armed ideology. The event highlights the collaborative efforts of police, central forces, local administration, and citizens in promoting lasting peace and development in the region.
