The BRICS TimesIn a major success against Left Wing Extremism, over 1,000 Maoists have surrendered in Chhattisgarh this year amid stronger security action.
Record Surrenders in 2025
More than 1,000 Maoists have surrendered in Chhattisgarh in 2025 — the highest in a single year so far. Security agencies have accelerated their campaign to end Left Wing Extremism (LWE) before the Centre’s March 31, 2026 deadline.
According to police records, 1,040 Maoist cadres have given up arms this year, compared to 881 in 2024. This sharp increase highlights the ongoing coordinated push by central and state forces. In previous years, surrenders stood at 344 in 2020, 544 in 2021, 417 in 2022, and 414 in 2023.
Authorities Expect More Maoist Surrenders
With less than six months to meet the Centre’s LWE-free target, officials expect more Maoists to surrender before 2025 ends.
Sources from the central armed police forces revealed that another wave of mid- and senior-level cadres may surrender this week. Talks are reportedly facilitated through mediators. The surrender wave is expected ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Chhattisgarh on November 1 for the state foundation day event.
Policy, Crackdown and Internal Rift Driving Change
“Discussions are ongoing, and every Maoist willing to surrender and return to the mainstream is welcome,” said an official familiar with the matter.
“The surge is due to three factors — the new surrender policy, extensive operations by security forces, and internal rifts within Maoist ranks,” the official added.
Recently, on October 8, 16 Maoists carrying a ₹48-lakh bounty surrendered before Narayanpur district police.
High-Level Security Meet Planned
Chhattisgarh will soon host the annual DGPs/IGPs conference, likely between November 28 and 30 in Naya Raipur. Last year, the meeting took place in Odisha.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to inaugurate the 60th edition, while Prime Minister Modi will attend and address police chiefs on the second day.
Maoist Leadership Weakens Sharply
The continuous anti-Maoist campaign has drastically reduced the Central Committee strength of the CPI (Maoist). As per Chhattisgarh Police data, only 10 members remain, down from 45 three years ago — many were killed, surrendered, or died naturally.
