How is Odisha's government transforming its surrender policy for LWEs?
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Synopsis
The Odisha government is making significant changes to its 'Surrender and Rehabilitation Scheme' for Left Wing Extremists. With new financial incentives and safeguards, the initiative aims to reintegrate former militants into society while combating extremism. Discover how this revamped policy seeks to transform the lives of those involved.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's revamped policy aims to reduce left-wing extremism.
- Financial assistance ranges from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 5 lakh based on the category.
- Immediate aid of Rs 50,000 is provided upon surrender.
- Incentives for surrendering weapons vary significantly.
- Access to social welfare schemes enhances livelihood opportunities.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 28 (NationPress) The government of Odisha has completely revamped its 'Surrender and Rehabilitation Scheme' for Left Wing Extremists (LWEs), aligning it with the most recent directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The updated framework seeks to reintegrate misguided youth and hardcore members of the banned CPI (Maoist) and its affiliated organizations into society through improved financial assistance, job opportunities, and skills-based rehabilitation.
This restructured scheme is strategically aimed at reducing Left Wing Extremism in the region while ensuring that those who surrender are offered significant avenues for livelihood.
Moreover, it introduces measures to guard against deceitful or tactical surrenders intended to exploit government benefits.
According to the announcement, surrendered extremists will be divided into two categories: Category A for top-ranked leaders, including Politburo members, Central Committee members, and State/Zonal Committee members, while Category B encompasses middle and lower-tier operatives such as divisional secretaries, area committee members, platoon commanders, and dalam cadres.
Additionally, the new package stipulates that after surrender, Category A members will receive up to Rs 5 lakh, while Category B members will receive Rs 2.5 lakh.
An immediate grant of Rs 50,000 will be awarded, with the remainder held in fixed deposits and disbursed in phases over three years, contingent on good conduct.
Incentives for surrendering weapons will vary, with Rs 4.95 lakh for Light Machine Guns and Rs 55 per round of ammunition.
Each surrendered individual, even those without weapons, will be granted an extra Rs 25,000.
If an individual has a government-declared bounty on their head, they will receive either the financial assistance or the bounty, whichever amount is greater.
The surrendered extremists will also gain access to various social welfare programs, including housing support under Antyodaya Gruha Yojana or equivalent cash benefits, a one-time marriage grant of Rs 25,000, free enrollment in skill development courses with a Rs 10,000 monthly stipend for up to 36 months, health cards, and subsidized rations under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana.
Consequently, any surrendered cadre found reverting to extremist actions or supporting Maoist groups will have their assets seized.
Point of View
I believe this initiative represents a crucial step towards fostering peace and stability in the region. By offering robust support and rehabilitation to former extremists, the Odisha government is not only addressing the immediate concerns of violence but also paving the way for long-term societal integration and development. This balanced approach can set a precedent for other states grappling with similar challenges.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the revamped surrender policy?
The primary objective of the revised policy is to reintegrate former militants into society while providing them with financial support, employment opportunities, and skills-based rehabilitation.
How much financial assistance will surrendered extremists receive?
Surrendered extremists in Category A can receive up to Rs 5 lakh, while those in Category B are eligible for Rs 2.5 lakh.
What safeguards are in place to prevent fraudulent surrenders?
The revamped scheme includes measures to prevent tactical or fraudulent surrenders aimed at exploiting government benefits.
Will surrendered extremists receive additional benefits?
Yes, they will have access to various social welfare schemes, including housing support, marriage grants, skill development courses, and health benefits.
What happens if a surrendered cadre returns to extremist activities?
Any surrendered cadre found returning to extremist activities or supporting Maoist groups will have their assets confiscated.
