In a significant boost to anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh, 37 Maoist operatives surrendered in Dantewada district on Sunday. This development is particularly impactful as 27 of the surrendered individuals were wanted criminals carrying a combined bounty of Rs 65 lakh. The surrender was orchestrated under the ‘Poona Margem’ program, an initiative dedicated to the rehabilitation and societal reintegration of former insurgents.
Senior police and CRPF officials were present to receive the surrendered cadres. The group included 12 women, highlighting the broad reach of rehabilitation efforts. Key figures such as Kumali alias Anita Mandavi, Geeta alias Laxmi Madkam, Ranjan alias Soma Mandavi, and Bhima alias Jahaj Kalmu, each previously carrying an Rs 8 lakh bounty, were among those who laid down arms.
Under the state government’s rehabilitation policy, these individuals will receive immediate financial assistance of Rs 50,000. Furthermore, they are slated to undergo skill development training and will be provided with resources for agricultural activities, aiding their transition into mainstream society. This multi-faceted support system aims to prevent recidivism and encourage lasting peace.
Authorities emphasize that the Bastar Range Police’s efforts, particularly the ‘Poona Margem’ initiative, are vital for fostering peace and development in the region. The success is evident, with over 500 Maoists, including 165 with bounties, surrendering in the last 20 months. Over the past 23 months, Chhattisgarh has seen more than 2,200 Naxal surrenders, contributing to the national goal of eliminating Naxalism by March 2026.