Malkangiri, July 11: In a significant blow to the dwindling Maoist insurgency, twelve hardcore Maoists surrendered before authorities at the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border, marking a continued decline in left-wing extremism in the region. The surrender took place in the border areas of Malkangiri district (Odisha) and Dantewada district (Chhattisgarh).
According to police officials, the surrendered Maoists had been active for several years and were involved in multiple acts of violence. Notably, nine of them carried a combined bounty of ₹28 lakh, announced earlier by the Chhattisgarh government.
Security officials attribute the surrender to sustained anti-Maoist operations and increasing disillusionment among cadre members with the Maoist ideology. The surrendered rebels reportedly cited relentless combing operations and the lure of government rehabilitation schemes as key reasons for laying down arms.
"The government’s attractive surrender and rehabilitation policy has played a crucial role in encouraging Maoists to join the mainstream," a senior police officer said. He added that the surrendered individuals will be rehabilitated in accordance with the provisions set by the state and central governments.
The Maoist movement has seen a steady decline, particularly after the deaths of several top leaders in recent years. Frequent security operations have further demoralized the cadres.
With the latest surrender, the number of Maoists who have laid down arms in Chhattisgarh stands at 1,005, including 205 with declared bounties. Police sources expect more surrenders in the coming months as operations continue and organizational strength wanes.
