22 Maoists, Including Nine Women, Surrender in Sukma, Chhattisgarh
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Synopsis
In a significant development, 22 Maoists, including nine women, surrendered in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, on April 18. This event marks a turning point in the fight against Maoism, aided by the 'Lon Varratu' campaign and government rehabilitation programs.
Key Takeaways
- 22 Maoists surrendered, including nine women.
- Collective bounty of Rs 40 lakh.
- Part of the Lon Varratu campaign.
- Government rehabilitation policy includes Rs 50,000 aid.
- Collaboration between various security forces was key to success.
Raipur, April 18 (NationPress) Security forces in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh have made a remarkable advancement as 22 Maoists, among them nine women, surrendered on Friday, signifying a crucial step in the ongoing battle against Maoism, according to officials.
This operation took place deep within the forests of Sukma and involved the Maad division along with various other hardcore Maoist factions.
The individuals who surrendered had a combined bounty of Rs 40 lakh and will now be eligible for the government’s rehabilitation program, officials stated.
Motivated by the “Lon Varratu (Come Back Home)” initiative in several districts of Chhattisgarh, numerous Maoists have chosen to return home.
While addressing the gathering during the 86th Raising Day of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that Naxalism is now limited to merely four districts and is expected to be eradicated from India by March of the following year.
The success of this operation was made feasible through the collaborative efforts of various security personnel, including the Sukma police, Deputy Inspector Generals from Sukma and Jagdalpur, and battalions of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Their commitment was vital in convincing the Maoists to relinquish their weapons.
On April 12, a group of eight Maoists, with a total bounty of Rs one lakh, surrendered at the office of the Deputy Inspector General of the Dantewada Range.
The RFT (Intelligence Branch) Dantewada, along with the 111th and 230th CRPF Battalions, played a significant role in supporting these surrenders.
According to the rehabilitation policy, these former Maoists will receive Rs 50,000 in financial assistance, skill development training, and agricultural land.
Previously, these individuals engaged in activities such as road digging and promoting Maoist propaganda. Disillusioned by the harsh realities of Maoism, internal strife, and the difficulties of forest life, they have opted to abandon violence and reintegrate into society.
The Lon Varratu campaign, along with the government’s rehabilitation strategy, has been extensively promoted in villages, encouraging surrenders from both high-ranking and lower-level Maoists.
