The BRICS TimesThe individuals who surrendered also expressed strong approval for the state government’s ‘Niyad Nellanar’ initiative, which is designed to promote development projects in the region’s most isolated villages.
A total of twenty Naxalites, eleven of whom had combined bounties of ₹33 lakh on their heads, surrendered to authorities in the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh on Wednesday, according to police reports.
Among those who turned themselves in were nine women, one of whom was identified as a hardcore member of the Peoples’ Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) battalion no.1, historically regarded as the most potent military unit within the Maoist organization, stated an official.
Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan mentioned that the group surrendered to senior police and CRPF officials, expressing disillusionment with what they described as the “empty” ideology of the Maoists. They also cited widespread atrocities perpetrated by senior cadres against innocent tribal communities and increasing internal conflicts within the banned group as their reasons for leaving.
He further added that the state’s ‘Niyad Nellanar’ (your good village) scheme, which focuses on enabling development work in far-flung villages, along with the updated surrender and rehabilitation policy, significantly influenced their decision.
The official noted that two of the surrendered individuals, Sharmila, also known as Uika Bhime (25), from the Maoists’ PLGA battalion no.1, and Tati Kosi, alias Parmila (20), associated with the west Bastar division, were each carrying a reward of ₹8 lakh.
Another high-ranking member, Muchaki Hidma (54), who served as an area committee member, had a bounty of ₹5 lakh. Four other cadres were each wanted for ₹4 lakh, and an additional four individuals each had rewards of ₹1 lakh on their heads.
Each of the surrendered Naxalites was granted immediate financial assistance of ₹50,000 and will be rehabilitated in accordance with the government’s established policy, the official confirmed.
SP Chavan made a public appeal to all remaining members of the outlawed Maoist organization to renounce violence, promising them full security and the opportunity for a dignified life.
He assured that under the comprehensive rehabilitation plan, they would be provided with access to education, employment opportunities, and the necessary support to build a self-sufficient life.
“The SP further added, “Abandon your weapons and rediscover the joy of community and family. The decision you make today will pave a new and positive way forward for future generations.”
