In a significant development for peace in Chhattisgarh, 51 Maoists laid down their arms and surrendered to security forces in the Bijapur district. This mass surrender includes 20 individuals who collectively carried a bounty of Rs 66 lakh, highlighting their former positions within the rebel ranks. The group also comprised nine women cadres, underscoring the diverse participation within the Naxalite movement. This event marks a substantial victory for the state’s ongoing campaign to combat Left Wing Extremism through rehabilitation and integration. Officials indicated that the surrendered Maoists were influenced by the government’s rehabilitation policies and the visible progress of development projects in the region. The surrender occurred under the ‘Poona Margem – Punarwas se Punarjeevan’ initiative, a program actively promoted by the Bastar Range Police to reintegrate former rebels into society. This policy aims to foster peace and provide a pathway to a normal life for those wishing to leave behind their violent past.
