Daijiworld Media Network - Latehar
Latehar, Apr 15: In a major success for security forces, two hardcore Maoists affiliated with the banned CPI-Maoist laid down arms and surrendered before the police and CRPF in Jharkhand’s Latehar district on Tuesday.
The surrendered Maoists, identified as Amarjeet Birjia and Mithilesh Korba both residents of Chhattisgarh’s Balrampur district were reportedly key members of the squad led by notorious Maoist commander Chhotu Kharwar. Their surrender is seen as a result of continuous pressure from intensified anti-Maoist operations in the region.
The surrender took place in the presence of Latehar SP Kumar Gaurav and CRPF Commandant Yadaram Bunkar, who welcomed them into the mainstream by garlanding them as a symbolic gesture.
Speaking on the occasion, SP Gaurav issued a strong message to other Maoists still active in the region. “Come forward and join the mainstream or be ready to face arrest or encounter,” he warned.
Both Birjia and Korba are accused in multiple cases, including one registered at Chhipadohar police station in Latehar. Their surrender marks yet another blow to the Maoist network in the state.
Security officials said the latest surrender reflects a broader trend as continued pressure has forced several Maoist cadres to abandon the armed struggle. Over the past few months alone, more than 50 Maoists have been killed in encounters in neighbouring Chhattisgarh.
Just a day ago, Jharkhand DGP Anurag Gupta, while reviewing anti-Maoist operations in Chaibasa, had asserted that the Maoist presence in the state was nearing its end. “Soon Jharkhand will be free of the Maoist menace,” he said.
According to police data, 13 top Maoist leaders remain on Jharkhand’s most-wanted list, including Misir Besra, Patiram Manjhi, and Asim Mandal all carrying bounties of Rs 1 cr each.
The Centre has also pledged decisive action against Maoist insurgency. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has set a deadline of March 31, 2026, to eradicate the Maoist threat completely from the country.
With coordinated efforts and increased surveillance, security forces across Maoist-affected states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh are maintaining relentless pressure on the insurgents.