Malkangiri, April 9: Once dreaded for their involvement in violent Maoist activities, two former Maoist leaders have now turned a new leaf, embracing mainstream life and contributing to society. Dhananjay Gop alias Sudhir and Rama Madkami alias Dinesh are currently working as security personnel at the district headquarters hospital, setting an example of transformation through surrender and rehabilitation.

After laying down arms, both have taken up responsibilities to ensure public safety. Sudhir is deployed at the blood bank, while Dinesh is also serving as a security guard at the hospital. They have expressed a sense of deep satisfaction in their new roles and have appealed to other Maoist cadres to surrender and join the mainstream.

Sudhir, who was once active in Maoist operations for over 14 years, had a history of involvement in several violent incidents. He surrendered in February 2019 before then DIG Himanshu Lal. At the time, a reward of ₹5 lakh had been announced on his head. He had been serving as a Divisional Committee Member (DCM) in the Gumma Area Committee of Malkangiri and was active in the Kalimela region since 2009, with multiple cases registered against him.

Similarly, Dinesh, another former Maoist leader, surrendered in 2015 and has since been leading a reformed life. Now employed as a security guard at the district hospital, he too has urged his former associates to return to normal life.

Both former cadres highlighted that working for society brings a sense of fulfillment that cannot be matched, sending a strong message to those still involved in extremist activities.