Jan 24: In a significant development for internal security in Chhattisgarh, nine Maoists surrendered before the police authorities in Dhamtari district today. Among those who laid down arms were seven women cadres, reflecting a growing impact of the government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy in Left Wing Extremism-affected areas.
The surrender took place in the presence of Inspector General of Police, Raipur Range, Amresh Mishra, and Superintendent of Police, Dhamtari, Suraj Singh Parihar. According to officials, a cumulative reward of ₹47 lakh had been declared on the surrendered Maoists for their alleged involvement in various extremist activities.
During the surrender, the former Maoist cadres handed over a cache of weapons and ammunition, including two INSAS rifles, two Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), a carbine, a gun, and other arms. Police officials stated that the recovery of these weapons is a major boost to ongoing anti-Maoist operations in the region.
As per police records, the surrendered Maoists were active in the Sitanadi area and had operational presence in Nagri, Mainpur, and Gobra regions of the state. They are reportedly accused of involvement in multiple incidents linked to Maoist violence and insurgent activities.
Senior police officials said that sustained pressure from security forces, improved development outreach, and attractive surrender-cum-rehabilitation policies have played a key role in motivating Maoist cadres to abandon violence and return to the mainstream. The surrendered individuals will be provided benefits as per the state government’s rehabilitation policy, including financial assistance, skill development, and support for reintegration into society.
The surrender is being seen as a positive step towards restoring peace and stability in Maoist-affected pockets of Chhattisgarh. Authorities reiterated their commitment to continuing coordinated security operations alongside development initiatives to eliminate extremism and ensure long-term security in the region.
