Balaghat district’s anti-Naxal campaign reached a turning point when hardcore female Naxalite Sunita Oyam surrendered to Balaghat District Police, expressing her faith in the Constitution and democracy. This not only symbolises a change in a person’s life, but also indicates that the Government and police are serious about rehabilitation and security for those who renounce violence and return to the mainstream. Sunita Oyam, who surrendered to the police, said during interrogation that she now believes in the Constitution of India. Police pressure in the forests has increased significantly and Naxals are not able to stay at one place. She decided to surrender after being fed up with the bullying, exploitation and indifference of senior cadre, leading life of oppression and attracted by the Government’s rehabilitation policy. Sunita informed that repeated violent tactics by senior cadres and isolation from her family also affected her mentally.

 

After surrendering, Sunita experienced a homely treatment from the police, which brought her emotional relief. Sunita appealed to her colleagues that those cadres in Balaghat who remain under the influence of the organisation and are refusing to abandon the path of violence should immediately surrender and return to the mainstream. She urged them to listen to the advice of CC member Sonu (alias Bhupit), CC member Rupesh, and other senior cadres and surrender immediately. After surrender, Sunita was provided with a primary health examination, psychological counselling and necessary medical care. Further, Sunita’s parents were brought and they met her, completing the initial social assistance initiative. Then necessary action has been initiated to provide Sunita the benefits under the provisions of the Madhya Pradesh Naxalite Surrender, Rehabilitation and Relief Policy 2023.

 

Those who want to renounce racial violence and return to the mainstream will be given full support under the MP Government Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy 2023. While strict legal action and effective operations by security forces will continue against those who do not give up the path of violence, they will be arrested/executed. Balaghat police is committed to maintaining peace in the area and safety of general public. Sunita’s surrender is a positive step in this direction. The aim of the administration and police is to eradicate violence and make society safe and prosperous. Those who wish to return to the mainstream will be rehabilitated with respect and security. Sunita Oyam’s self-surrender is not just the story of one person—but a message to the many lives that seek a new beginning from the clutches of violence.