Raipur
In a major breakthrough against left-wing extremism, 103 Maoists surrendered to senior police and paramilitary officials in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, on Thursday, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. This marks a significant step in weakening Maoist influence in the region.
Among those surrendering, 49 carried a total reward of Rs 1.06 crore. The group included senior cadres such as DVCMs, PPCMs, ACMs, militia commanders, and members of the Jantana Sarkar. The surrender was organised under the state-led ‘Puna Margem’ initiative, promoting rehabilitation and reintegration. Top officials, including DIG Kamalochan Kashyap and SP Jitendra Kumar Yadav, oversaw the event. Each surrendering Maoist received Rs 50,000 as part of the rehabilitation package.
Officials said disillusionment with Maoist ideology, internal conflicts, and desire for peaceful life motivated the decision. The deaths of senior leaders and reduced public support have further weakened the movement. The presence of many RPC members among the surrendered signals a shift in the organisation’s strength.
Chhattisgarh’s multi-pronged strategy — including new security camps, road expansion, electricity, water access, and community policing — has encouraged surrenders. The ‘Niyed Nella Nar Scheme’ and awareness campaigns also played a role.
Since January 2025, Bijapur has recorded 421 arrests, 410 surrenders, and 137 deaths of Maoists. Over two years, there have been 924 arrests, 599 surrenders, and 195 deaths. Officials say this reflects the weakening of Maoist influence and the success of anti-Naxal operations. The mass surrender is seen as a symbolic defeat of a violent ideology and a step towards peace and development.
