Koraput declared Maoist-free after cadre level member surrenders before police

Koraput district in Odisha was declared free of Maoist presence following the surrender of a cadre-level Maoist before the local police on Thursday, officials said. 

South Western Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Kanwar Vishal Singh announced that Koraput is now Maoist-free after the surrender of Mamata Podiyami, described by the police as a notorious Maoist.

Surrender Before Senior Officials

Mamata Podiyami surrendered before Koraput police in the presence of South Western Range DIG Kanwar Vishal Singh, Koraput Superintendent of Police Rohit Verma and other senior officials. 

During the surrender, she handed over an SLR rifle, a magazine and 10 rounds of ammunition. Police also recovered a few bullets and other Maoist-related items from her possession.

Following the surrender, the DIG stated that Koraput is Maoist-free from today.

Background Of The Surrendered Cadre

According to police, Mamata Podiyami, aged 26, was an ACM-ranked Maoist cadre active in Chhattisgarh. Several cases were registered against her, including one related to an exchange of fire with security personnel. She was carrying a bounty of Rs 5,50,000 on her head at the time of her surrender.

Officials said she surrendered in Koraput under existing government schemes meant for Maoist rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation And Security Operations

As per the government’s rehabilitation policy, Mamata Podiyami will be granted Rs 7,50,000 along with other facilities to help her reintegrate into society. The DIG said she would be provided all government assistance as per the declared policy.

Police officials said Koraput was earlier considered a Maoist-prone district, while neighbouring regions such as Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh continue to face Maoist activity. 

They added that sustained combing operations by security forces have led to the surrender of several Maoists and the seizure of large caches of weapons in recent times.

Also Read: Hardcore Maoist with Rs 21 lakh reward surrenders before Malkangiri SP

Security agencies are continuing their operations in the region.