In a significant development for regional peace, 37 Naxal operatives have surrendered in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh. This mass surrender, which occurred on Sunday, includes 27 individuals who collectively carried bounties totaling Rs 65 lakh. The operation was facilitated by the ‘Poona Margem’ initiative, designed to encourage rehabilitation and social reintegration of former insurgents.
Senior police and CRPF officers received the surrendered cadres. The group comprised 12 women, demonstrating the initiative’s broad appeal and inclusive strategy. Notable figures among the surrendering Naxals included Kumali alias Anita Mandavi, Geeta alias Laxmi Madkam, Ranjan alias Soma Mandavi, and Bhima alias Jahaj Kalmu. Each of these key individuals was previously associated with an Rs 8 lakh bounty.
The Chhattisgarh government’s rehabilitation policy offers substantial support to those who choose to lay down arms. Surrendering individuals receive an immediate sum of Rs 50,000, along with access to skill development training, agricultural land, and various other resources aimed at fostering their successful reintegration into society. This comprehensive approach is proving effective in dismantling extremist networks.
Authorities view the Bastar Range Police’s ‘Poona Margem’ initiative as a crucial step towards achieving lasting peace, promoting respect for law, and driving development in the Naxal-affected areas. In the last 20 months alone, over 500 Maoists, including 165 with prior bounties, have voluntarily surrendered and returned to mainstream life. These efforts are crucial as the national objective to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026 intensifies.