Sukma, Jan 7: In a significant breakthrough for security forces tackling Left-Wing Extremism, 26 hardcore Naxalites, including seven women, surrendered simultaneously in the Maoist-affected Sukma district on Wednesday.
The surrendered insurgents carried a combined bounty of around Rs 64–65 lakh, marking a major setback to the outlawed Maoist organization.
These cadres were active in critical operational zones, including the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion, South Bastar Division, Maad Division, and the Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) region. Their ranks within the Maoist hierarchy included one Company Party Committee Member (CYPCM), four Platoon Party Committee Members (PPCM), three Area Committee Members (ACM), and 18 ordinary Party Members.
Police officials stated that the surrendered Maoists were involved in several high-profile incidents across Sukma, the Maad region, and bordering areas of Odisha.
The mass surrender follows intensified anti-Maoist operations and the establishment of new security camps in remote interior areas, which have substantially increased pressure on insurgents.
Authorities said the cadres were motivated by the Chhattisgarh government’s attractive ‘Naxalite Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy,’ which offers financial aid, skill development, and protection for those willing to abandon violence. The ongoing 'Poona Marge' campaign, aimed at rehabilitating and reintegrating former insurgents into mainstream society, also played a key role in their decision to lay down arms.
