Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur

Raipur, Mar 1: In a major victory for Chhattisgarh’s anti-Naxal operations, 15 Maoists surrendered in Mahasamund district on Saturday, handing over a significant cache of weapons. The group, including nine women and six men, was linked to the Balangir-Bargarh-Mahasamund (BBM) committee operating along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border.

State Home Minister Vijay Sharma shared the development on X, highlighting that the surrendered cadres, including Vikas alias Babanna—a former State Committee Member—turned in 14 firearms, comprising 3 AK-47 rifles, 2 SLRs, and 2 INSAS rifles. Sharma noted that the total bounty on their heads was approximately Rs 73 lac.

“The surrender reflects the impact of sustained security operations, development initiatives in remote areas, and the state government’s rehabilitation policy,” Sharma said. He assured that the ex-Maoists would receive full support, including security, healthcare, and assistance for reintegration into society.

Police sources confirmed that the surrendered members included cadres from the divisional, area, and party committees of the BBM division. Officials credited improved road connectivity, schools, healthcare facilities, and livelihood schemes in former Maoist strongholds for contributing to the wave of surrenders.

Chhattisgarh aims to eliminate Maoism from the state by March 2026, and the number of Naxal surrenders has risen sharply since 2024. Under the state’s rehabilitation policy, former cadres will receive financial aid, skill training, and employment opportunities to facilitate a smooth return to civilian life.

Security forces hailed the surrender as a morale boost and a clear sign of waning Naxal influence in the border belt with Odisha. Authorities believe that ongoing surrenders are gradually paving the way for long-term peace and stability in the region.