Bijapur, February 7: A significant achievement has been recorded in Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh. During President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Bastar, 30 Maoist cadres decided to abandon violence and return to the mainstream. This event is part of the Chhattisgarh government’s ‘Puna Margem: Rehabilitation to Revitalization’ initiative, which is based on a policy of surrender and rehabilitation.
Among the 30 cadres, there are 20 women and 10 men, all linked to the South Sub-Zonal Bureau. They had a total bounty of 8.5 million rupees on their heads. The group includes individuals who held significant positions such as company commanders, area committee members, party members, presidents of DAKMS and KAMS, and heads of the Janatana government. These cadres voluntarily handed over a cardex wire bundle and 50 sticks of gelatin to the security forces.
The surrender took place in front of Deputy Inspector General of Police Keripu Ops Bijapur Sector B.S. Negi, Superintendent of Police Dr. Jitendra Kumar Yadav, and other senior officials. This achievement was made possible through the joint efforts of security forces, including the DRG, District Force, Chhattisgarh Special Force, STF, Cobra, and Keripu battalions. These forces have consistently engaged in active operations, building trust and demonstrating sensitivity, encouraging Maoists to reintegrate into society.
Superintendent of Police Dr. Jitendra Kumar Yadav stated that Maoists should abandon misleading and violent ideologies and return to society. The ‘Puna Margem’ policy is providing every assistance for their safe, dignified, and self-reliant future. Inspector General of Police Bastar Range Sundar Raj P. Pattalingam noted that this incident signals a rapid decline of the Maoist organization. Improved security camps, better roads, successful operations, and development plans are shrinking the Maoists’ base. He urged remaining cadres to recognize that violence leads only to destruction, while ‘Puna Margem’ offers a path to peace and a better life.
Since January 1, 2024, a total of 918 Maoists have returned to the mainstream in Bijapur district, 1,163 have been arrested, and 232 have been killed in encounters. This success is attributed to the state government’s anti-Naxal policy, the actions of security forces, and coordinated efforts in peace, dialogue, and development. Each cadre in the rehabilitation process has been provided with immediate assistance of 50,000 rupees. Legal processes are ongoing to ensure these individuals can lead dignified lives.