New Delhi [India]: In a significant boost to anti-Naxal operations, 22 Naxalites—including nine women and multiple high-ranking members—surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district on Friday. The development, hailed as a major win for peace efforts in the Bastar region, comes as part of a broader push by the Modi government to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026.
🚨 Key Highlights:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed the Centre’s determination to eliminate Naxalism: “We are determined to free the country from the scourge of Naxalism before March 31, 2026.”
“I appeal to Naxalites to lay down their arms and adopt the surrender policy.” - Shah confirmed that 11 Naxals surrendered in Sukma’s Badesetti Panchayat, now officially declared Naxal-free. The remaining 11 were arrested in separate anti-Naxal operations in Bijapur, with modern weapons and explosives seized.
🛡️ State Support & Rehabilitation
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai echoed Shah’s sentiment, stating:
“22 Naxalites have surrendered, including 11 with bounties totaling Rs 40 lakh. Every effort will be made to ensure their rehabilitation as per rules.”
- Rehabilitation efforts include:
- ₹50,000 in immediate assistance.
- Access to government schemes, skill development, and agricultural land.
- Participation in the state’s ‘Lon Varratu’ (Come Home) campaign aimed at de-radicalization.
🗣️ Ground Voices
Sukma SP Kiran Gangaram Chavan confirmed that the surrendering Naxals hailed from Maad (Chhattisgarh) and Nuapada (Odisha) divisions.
“Some carried bounties of Rs 5–8 lakhs. They will receive all benefits under the government’s surrender policy,” said Chavan.
Earlier, 26 Maoists had surrendered in Dantewada under similar initiatives.
🕊️ A Region Turning the Page
BJP Chhattisgarh Chief Kiran Singh Deo noted the gradual transformation in Bastar:
“Peace is returning. Development and welfare schemes are reaching areas that were once no-go zones.”
🛑 Why It Matters
This coordinated effort reflects a shift in strategy: a dual-pronged approach involving intelligence-based operations and reintegration policies. With consistent surrenders, the government is inching closer to its goal of making red zones green with peace and development.