Major Setback to Maoists: 26 Andhra-Odisha division cadres carrying bounty of Rs 64L surrender

As many as 26 Maoists from the Andhra–Odisha Division surrendered before the Sukma district police of Chhattisgarh on Thursday. A cumulative reward of Rs 64 lakh was announced on their heads, officials said.

The surrender took place at the Sukma district police office, where the Maoists laid down arms before Superintendent of Police Kiran G Chavan.

Surrender At District Police Office

According to the police, all 26 Maoists were active members of the Andhra–Odisha Border Division and were involved in insurgent activities in forested and border areas. Their surrender is being seen as a significant development in ongoing efforts to curb the extremism in the region.

Officials said the Maoists opted to surrender under the government’s rehabilitation and surrender policy, which aims to encourage cadres to return to the mainstream.

Rehabilitation And Financial Assistance

As per the policy, each surrendered Maoist will be provided immediate financial assistance of Rs 50,000. In addition, a monthly assistance of Rs 10,000 will be given for a period of three years to help them rebuild their lives. The administration stated that steps will also be taken to make them self-reliant and that they will be extended all facilities and benefits provided by the government.

Security Operations Intensified

As per reports, the Maoists are increasingly fearful for their safety amid intensified security operations, with thousands of security personnel combing forest areas where they previously operated. With both the Indian and State governments stepping up operations to eliminate Maoist influence, a growing number of cadres began to surrender.

Also Read: 14 Maoists killed in major encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region

Officials believe that more cadre-level Maoists who are still active may surrender in the coming days, especially as the group’s strength continues to dwindle following recent encounters in which several senior Maoist leaders carrying high bounties were killed.