At least 16 Maoists surrendered before the police at Narayanpur, located along the Chhattisgarh border adjoining Odisha’s Malkangiri, on Thursday. 

The group included a deputy commander of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), key organisational members, and a member of the North Bureau Technical Team, all regarded as top cadres within the outfit.

Maoist strongholds in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand are witnessing a steady collapse as cadres continue to abandon the organisation. The once-dreaded ‘red corridors’ are gradually losing ground, signalling a major setback for the insurgent movement that has long plagued these regions.

As per reports, among those who surrendered were seven women Maoists- this highlights the extent of the disillusionment spreading even among the group’s most steadfast members. These 16 rebels together carried a total reward of Rs 70 lakh on their heads, which underscores their importance within the Maoist hierarchy.

Red Fortresses Fall One by One

The surrender marks another step in the steady disintegration of Maoist influence in India’s eastern belt. Once vibrant hubs of left-wing extremism, these areas are now witnessing their leadership and foot soldiers either surrendering or being neutralised in intensified security operations.

Step Towards a Mao-Free Nation by 2026

This latest development is being viewed as a major achievement in the government’s broader plan to make India Maoist-free by 2026. With Maoist fortresses collapsing and the organisation struggling to retain control, security agencies believe the goal is increasingly within reach.

Also Read: Maoist camp busted in Odisha’s Malkangiri, security forces seize massive arms dump, foil major attack

The fall of these bastions not only represents a victory for law enforcement but also a renewed hope for peace and stability in regions long affected by insurgency.