28 Maoist rebels surrender in Chhattisgarh under reintegration push
Twenty-eight Maoist rebels, including 19 women, have surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district. The group handed over weapons and collectively carried a reward of ₹89 lakh. Authorities described the move as a significant step toward peace in the region.
The surrender took place under the ‘Poona Margham’ initiative, which focuses on rehabilitating and reintegrating former rebels into society. Inspector Vinay Kumar, the police officer leading the programme, highlighted the combined efforts of local communities, administration, and security forces in making this possible.
In the last 50 days alone, 515 Maoist rebels have laid down arms across the Bastar division. This year, Narayanpur district has seen 287 surrenders. The Inspector General of Police for Bastar Range noted that the growing numbers signal the fading influence of violent ideology and a shift toward mainstream life.
Three of the surrendered rebels turned in weapons, including a self-loading rifle, an INSAS assault rifle, and a .303 rifle. Authorities have also called on remaining Maoist leaders, such as Politburo Member Devji and Central Committee Member Ramder, to follow suit and abandon armed resistance.
Since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took office in Chhattisgarh in December 2023, around 2,300 Maoists have reportedly surrendered across the state.
The latest surrenders bring the total to over 500 in just over a month within Bastar. The ‘Poona Margham’ programme continues to offer former rebels a path back into civilian life. Officials remain focused on encouraging more defections and reducing insurgent activity in the region.
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