What Led a Maoist Couple to Surrender in Giridih?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Maoist couple's surrender signifies a potential shift in the conflict.
- Disillusionment with Maoist leadership played a key role in their decision.
- Both individuals will benefit from the rehabilitation policy.
- The incident raises questions about the internal dynamics of the Maoist organization.
- Continued engagement with local communities is essential for peace.
Giridih (Jharkhand), Oct 8 (NationPress) A Maoist couple who were sought in connection with multiple criminal offenses have surrendered to senior police and district officials in Giridih, Jharkhand, on Wednesday.
The duo -- Shivlal Hembram (25), also known as Shiva, and his spouse Sarita Hansda (19), referred to as Urmila -- were both engaged members of the CPI (Maoist) organization.
As per police reports, Shivlal, hailing from Tesafuli village under the Madhuban police station, held the position of an Area Committee Member within the Maoist structure. His wife Sarita, originally from Chatro village in the Khukhra police station area, was part of a Maoist unit.
Police documentation indicates that Shivlal has 11 cases filed against him across various police stations, including Giridih, Dumri, Khukhra, Madhuban, Chatrochatti, and Jageshwar Vihar.
The charges encompass murder, extortion, possession of arms and explosives, and violations of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Sarita is also linked to multiple FIRs concerning Naxal-related actions.
According to officials, Shivlal became involved with the Maoist group in 2017, initially serving as a bodyguard to senior Maoist commander Karam Da (alias Vivek), who has a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head.
His increasing involvement led to his promotion as an Area Committee Member in 2022. Reports suggest that Shivlal participated in strategizing and executing various Maoist operations, including hiding explosives, extorting villagers, and ambushing police forces.
Sarita joined the Maoist ranks in 2020 after being recruited by a female cadre named Jaya Di. The couple married within the organization in 2024.
Police indicate that their decision to surrender stemmed from disillusionment with the exploitation and violence inflicted by senior Maoist leaders on innocent villagers.
Giridih Police reported being in constant communication with the couple’s families, encouraging them to reintegrate into society.
Post-surrender, both individuals will be eligible for benefits under the Jharkhand government’s Naxal Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy.
Giridih Superintendent of Police Deepak Sharma praised the surrender as a “notable step towards restoring harmony in the region” and urged other Maoists to abandon violence and embrace development.