In a positive development against Maoists in Bastar, four Naxalites, two of whom are women, surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district. The surrendered individuals, associated with the banned CPI (Maoist), were part of the Kistaram area committee. They laid down their arms as part of the state government’s ‘Poona Margem’ initiative, focusing on rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Among the surrendered Naxalites were Sodhi Joga, an area committee member with a Rs 5 lakh reward, along with Dabar Ganga (alias Madkam Ganga), Sodhi Raje, and Madvi Budhari, each carrying a Rs one lakh bounty. They handed over a significant arsenal that included various rifles and ammunition. The decision to surrender was influenced by the effective surrender and rehabilitation policy of the Chhattisgarh government.
The recent surge in surrenders is attributed to strategic advancements, such as the establishment of new security camps in Kistaram and Golapalli areas, improved road connectivity, and ongoing anti-Naxal operations that have restricted Maoist activities. These efforts have led to a decline in extortion, recruitment, and logistical support for insurgents in the region. Authorities are encouraging other Maoist cadres to follow suit and embrace peaceful means, promising security, livelihood support, and rehabilitation benefits in line with government regulations.
