In a significant milestone for Chhattisgarh’s ongoing anti-Naxal efforts, 24 Maoists — including senior commanders, CPI Maoits front organisation Krantikari Adivasi Mahila Sangathan (KAMS) leaders, and PLGA members — surrendered before police authorities in Bastar, signaling growing disillusionment within the ranks of insurgents. Senior officials of Bastar Range Police, engaged in anti-Naxal operations and rehabilitation efforts, told The Hitavada that the surrenders were the result of sustained security operations, establishment of new security camps in interior areas, expansion of roads, and effective communication of government welfare schemes to remote villages.

 

Among the surrendered were high-profile cadres from the East Bastar Division’s Paratapur Area Committee and West Bastar Division’s Bhairamgarh Area Committee, including ACMs, AOB Division PLGA members, PPCM-03 cadres, KAMS presidents, section deputy commanders, CNM members, and other militia ranks, carrying combined bounties totaling Rs 28.50 lakh. Police sources confirmed that frustrations stemming from ideological disillusionment, rising internal conflicts, and the lure of a dignified, peaceful family life under State rehabilitation policies prompted the surrenders.

 

Those who laid down arms included figures from insurgency hotspots like Sawanar, Kamkanar, Keshkutul, Cherli, and Kanchal RPCs. Officials elaborated that between January 1, 2025, and now, the district has seen the arrest of 213 Maoists, surrender of 203 insurgents, and neutralization of 90 Maoists in various encounters — figures reflecting the steady crumbling of militant influence across Bastar. Each of the surrendered Maoists was provided an immediate incentive of Rs 50,000 to support their reintegration into society, as per the provisions of the State’s surrender and rehabilitation policy. Senior Bastar Police officers emphasized, “This wave of surrenders is not just a tactical victory but a testament to the success of the State’s community-centric policing, the growing appeal of developmental initiatives, and the eroding credibility of extremist ideology among ground-level cadres.” Officials also reiterated their commitment to ensuring a humane transition for surrendered cadres back into mainstream life, through skill development, education, healthcare, and dignified livelihoods.