22 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh amid ongoing rehabilitation efforts

In a major breakthrough in the fight against left-wing extremism, 22 Maoists surrendered in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Tuesday, marking a significant step forward in the state’s efforts to reintegrate insurgents into mainstream society.

According to officials, the surrendered Maoists carried a cumulative bounty of Rs 26 lakh. Among them, two had rewards of Rs 8 lakh each on their heads, while another two were listed with rewards of Rs 5 lakh each.

The development follows Union Home Minister Amit Shah's recent appeal to Maoists during his visit to Chhattisgarh, urging them to abandon violence and return to the mainstream. He assured that both the Centre and the state governments have robust rehabilitation policies offering better opportunities and a dignified life for those willing to surrender.

A similar surrender took place on April 7 in Dantewada district, where 26 Maoists, including three with rewards, laid down arms under the ‘Loan Varratu’ (Come Back Home) campaign. The initiative, a collaboration between the District Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), aims to encourage disillusioned insurgents to embrace peace and development.

The surrender at the District Reserve Guard office in Dantewada highlighted the growing impact of sustained awareness drives and outreach efforts. Authorities noted that the insurgents had grown weary of the violence, exploitation, and hardships inherent in the Maoist lifestyle.

So far, under the ‘Loan Varratu’ initiative and other outreach programs, a total of 953 Maoists—224 of whom carried monetary rewards—have surrendered. These include key leaders and members from various Maoist outfits, including the Jan militia.

As part of the rehabilitation program, each surrendered individual is entitled to a Rs 50,000 incentive to help them transition smoothly into civilian life.