Raipur, Oct 15 (NationPress) A remarkable development unfolded in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Wednesday as 27 active Maoists voluntarily surrendered to security forces, showcasing a significant advancement in the state's campaign against left-wing extremism.

Among those who laid down their weapons were two prominent members of the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion-01, which is notorious within the outlawed CPI (Maoist).

These individuals, who have been under the surveillance of security personnel for several years, were known to carry substantial bounties on their heads, highlighting their seniority and their involvement in violent acts throughout the Bastar region.

Official sources indicate that the total reward sum associated with the surrendered individuals reaches Rs 50 lakh. This includes one Maoist with a bounty of Rs 10 lakh, three others with Rs 8 lakh each, one with Rs 9 lakh, two with Rs 2 lakh each, and nine Maoists with rewards of Rs 1 lakh each. The group comprises 10 women and 17 male Maoists.

According to police officials, the effects of the ongoing Chhattisgarh Navsankalp Surrender Policy and the Niyat Nella Nar scheme are becoming increasingly evident in the region.

The remaining individuals are considered active foot soldiers without stated bounties, yet they have reportedly participated in logistical support and local mobilization.

This surrender is viewed as a consequence of persistent pressure from coordinated security operations and the positive influence of state-sponsored rehabilitation programs.

Officials believe this event will resonate profoundly among other active cadres, potentially inciting a wave of defections from the Maoist ranks, particularly in Chhattisgarh's turbulent southern districts. Local police and paramilitary forces have escalated their outreach efforts in recent months, providing safe passage, financial assistance, and vocational training to those willing to abandon violence.

The surrendered Maoists will now undergo processing under the state's surrender and rehabilitation framework, designed to reintegrate former insurgents into mainstream society. This event coincides with the state's preparations for enhanced security measures as the festive season and upcoming elections approach.

With the surrender of these 27 individuals, authorities aim to further diminish the operational capabilities of the Maoist network and restore tranquility in the area.

The district administration has commended this move, labeling it a turning point in the battle against extremism and a triumph for dialogue over destruction.