Fifteen Naxalites, nine among them women, turned themselves in at Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday, surrendering a deadly arsenal that included AK-47s and SLRs. This mass capitulation from the Balangir-Bargarh-Mahasamund committee active on the Odisha frontier cripples local Maoist strength.
The surrendered weapons—three AK-47 rifles, two self-loading rifles, and two INSAS systems—represent a significant haul. Carrying bounties totaling Rs 73 lakh, these fighters, led by state committee member Vikas alias Babanna, opted for peace via the state’s rehabilitation scheme.
Taking to X, Home Minister Vijay Sharma celebrated the trio of embracing constitutionality over conflict. He spotlighted the Vishnu Dev administration’s triumphs in good governance, crediting PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for steering policies that lure rebels home.
Sharma outlined the triggers: unyielding security force pursuits, rural development surges, and supportive reintegration programs. The state commits to safeguarding these individuals with protection, medical aid, and skill-building opportunities.
Insights from law enforcement indicate the group featured top BBM division leaders from committee and party echelons. This aligns with a broader 2024-onward boom in surrenders, where thousands have forsaken arms.
Chhattisgarh’s bold target to wipe out Naxalism by March 2026 appears within reach, fueled by such transformative surrenders. It paints a narrative of redemption, where former foes become partners in progress, reshaping India’s tribal belts.