A significant number of Naxalites, totaling 41 individuals including 12 women, surrendered to authorities in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district on Wednesday. This wave of surrenders is particularly notable as 32 of the cadres carried a combined bounty of Rs 1.19 crore, indicating their high-ranking status within the Maoist movement. The cadres presented themselves to senior police officials, choosing to renounce violence.
The successful rehabilitation initiative, spearheaded by the Chhattisgarh government and the Bastar police’s ‘Poona Margham’ program, played a crucial role. This policy offers a clear path for cadres to return to mainstream society, promising security and opportunities for self-reliance. The surrendered individuals cited these provisions and the desire for a dignified life as primary motivators.
Of the 41 who laid down arms, 39 were deeply embedded within the Maoist hierarchy, specifically linked to the South Sub-Zonal Bureau. Their affiliations extended to critical operational bodies such as the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee, Telangana State Committee, and regional divisions. The roles they held were diverse, including battalion operatives, area committee members, platoon commanders, and militia members.
The financial rewards offered for their capture underscore their importance: nine cadres each had an Rs 8 lakh bounty, with others collectively carrying Rs 5 lakh, Rs 2 lakh, and Rs 1 lakh bounties. Each individual received an immediate Rs 50,000 incentive as part of the rehabilitation package. This development contributes to a larger success narrative, with Bijapur seeing 790 Maoist cadres abandon violence and join society since January 2024.