Why Are Six Maoists Surrendering in Chhattisgarh?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable development, six Maoists, including a woman, gave up their arms in Dantewada as part of the 'Lon Varratu' campaign. This initiative by the Chhattisgarh government aims to reintegrate former militants into society, marking a significant step toward peace.
Key Takeaways
- Six Maoists surrendered as part of the 'Lon Varratu' campaign.
- Financial assistance and training provided to help reintegration.
- A total of 967 Maoists have surrendered since the campaign's launch.
- Disillusionment among youth has led to increased surrenders.
- Coordinated efforts by police have been crucial in this initiative.
Raipur, April 30 (NationPress) In a notable turn of events, six Maoists, including a female member, surrendered in Dantewada on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, as part of the ongoing "Lon Varratu" (Come Back Home) initiative.
Out of the group, three individuals had a total bounty of Rs 4 lakh placed on their heads. The surrendered members include Kadti Deva (34), Ms. Lakkhe Kuhram (30), Mithlesh alias Mudda Oyam (25), Pagnu Veko (37), Masram Ram (27), and Bhimsen Oyam (30), all of whom were active participants in various Maoist area committees.
Kadti Deva, identified as the Gompad RPC Militia Chief, had a reward of Rs 2 lakh. Meanwhile, Lakkhe Kuhram, affiliated with the Bhairamgarh Area Committee Party, and Mithlesh alias Mudda Oyam, a member of the Farsegarh LOS, were each marked with Rs 1 lakh bounties.
The surrendered Maoists were engaged in activities such as digging roads and spreading Naxal propaganda through banners and posters.
The "Lon Varratu" initiative, introduced under the Chhattisgarh Government's Rehabilitation Policy, is designed to facilitate the reintegration of Maoists into mainstream society.
This campaign has been widely promoted across villages, motivating even high-ranking Maoists to abandon their cause. Those who surrender are provided financial aid of Rs 50,000, alongside skill development training, agricultural plots, and other support to assist in their reintegration.
The surrender was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Deputy Inspector General Kamalochan Kashyap (IPS), Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai (IPS), and other senior officials from various police departments.
The increasing number of surrenders marks a significant shift among Maoist cadres, especially the youth, who are disillusioned with Maoist ideology. Many have become fatigued by the violence, exploitation, and hardships faced in the forests, combined with internal conflicts within their organizations. This growing dissatisfaction has led them to step away from the movement and seek new opportunities in society.
The coordinated endeavors of the District Reserve Guard, Bastar Fighters Dantewada, RFT (Intelligence Branch) Dantewada and Konta, and the 111th, 195th, and 230th Battalions of the CRPF have played a crucial role in encouraging these Maoists to surrender. Since the launch of the "Lon Varratu" campaign, a total of 967 Maoists, including 229 individuals with rewards, have surrendered and joined mainstream society, signifying a considerable move towards peace and stability in the region.
Point of View
The surrender of these Maoists underlines a crucial shift in the ongoing conflict in Chhattisgarh. The 'Lon Varratu' initiative is a proactive approach to dismantle the Maoist stronghold by encouraging former militants to seek a new life outside the cycle of violence. This movement not only highlights the government's efforts but also showcases the changing attitudes among the youth towards Maoist ideologies. It is imperative that such initiatives continue to receive support to foster long-term peace and stability in the region.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Lon Varratu' campaign?
The 'Lon Varratu' campaign is an initiative by the Chhattisgarh government aimed at encouraging Maoists to surrender and reintegrate into society through financial support and skill development.
How many Maoists have surrendered under this campaign?
As of now, a total of 967 Maoists have surrendered under the 'Lon Varratu' campaign, including 229 individuals with bounties on their heads.
What support is provided to surrendered Maoists?
Surrendered Maoists receive financial assistance of Rs 50,000, skill development training, agricultural land, and other benefits to aid their transition back into society.
Who facilitated the recent surrender of six Maoists?
The surrender was facilitated by the efforts of Deputy Inspector General Kamalochan Kashyap (IPS), Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai (IPS), and other senior police officials.
Why are more Maoists surrendering now?
The increasing number of surrenders reflects a shift among Maoist cadres, particularly the youth, who are disillusioned with the violence, exploitation, and hardships associated with the Maoist movement.
