Raipur, February 5: In a significant development, twelve Maoist cadres surrendered on Thursday in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region under the state government’s initiative ‘Puna Margem: Rehabilitation to Rejuvenation.’ This marks a new beginning of trust and reintegration into mainstream society.
The group of surrendering Maoists included eight women and four men, all of whom laid down their arms. Among the weapons surrendered were three automatic firearms, including an AK-47 and an SLR rifle, along with ammunition.
The banned CPI (Maoist) organization had announced a total reward of ₹54 lakh based on the positions and roles of these individuals. They voluntarily handed over additional explosive materials, including 250 gelatin sticks, 400 detonators, a plastic drum of explosives, and a bundle of cordex wire.
Among those who surrendered was 42-year-old Somdu Madkam, a Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) from the Darbha division and in charge of the Katekalyan area committee, who had a reward of ₹8 lakh on his head. He surrendered one AK-47 and a magazine.
Also included were 19-year-old Hungi Kunjam, alias Soni, a member of Battalion Number 1 with an ₹8 lakh bounty; 22-year-old Paiki Kunjam, a member of Company Number 2, also with an ₹8 lakh reward; and 24-year-old Ayati Madkam, alias Punni, a member of the North Sub-Zonal Bureau’s Platon Party Committee, who had a ₹5 lakh bounty. Additionally, several Area Committee Members (ACMs), party members, and PLGA members surrendered, with rewards ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh.
The surrender took place in front of Bastar Range Inspector General Sundar Raj P and other senior officials, including the Deputy Inspector General of CRPF, operations officer of the Bijapur sector, and Bijapur Superintendent of Police Dr. Jitendra Kumar Yadav.
Legal processes are underway for the rehabilitation and reintegration of these individuals into society, which includes provisions for financial assistance, skill development, and support as per state policy. This event is being regarded as a significant achievement in the ongoing anti-Maoist campaign.
Since January 1, 2024, a total of 888 Maoists have returned to the mainstream in Bijapur district alone. Additionally, 1,163 Maoists have been arrested, and 231 have been killed in encounters.
The state government’s comprehensive strategy, which includes security operations, dialogue, development initiatives, and attractive rehabilitation packages, has gradually reduced the impact of violence and created opportunities for progress instead of fear.