In a significant victory for law enforcement, a hardened Maoist couple, carrying a combined bounty of Rs 13 lakh, surrendered to district police in Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, Chhattisgarh. The pair, both 25 years old, cited the Chhattisgarh government’s progressive Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy-2025 as their motivation for seeking a peaceful life. They were deeply involved in the outlawed CPI (Maoist) movement, operating within the Maad Division of Bastar and the Madhya Pradesh-Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh (MMC) zone. Their activities included recruiting new members and providing logistical support in remote forested areas along the tri-state border. The male cadre, known by his alias ‘Munna,’ had a Rs 7 lakh reward on his head, while his partner ‘Julie’ was valued at Rs 6 lakh for her active participation. Police officials are hailing this surrender as a turning point in their efforts to dismantle Maoist strongholds. Superintendent of Police, Lakshya Sharma, stated that the couple was impressed by ongoing security operations and the promise of a dignified life through the rehabilitation scheme. They will now receive de-radicalisation, skill training, financial assistance, and long-term support to reintegrate into society. This surrender adds to a growing trend, with over 2,200 Maoist cadres, including prominent figures, having surrendered in Chhattisgarh over the last 23 months. This success is attributed to a comprehensive strategy combining security operations, community engagement, and attractive rehabilitation incentives under the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ initiative.
