Chhattisgarh: 21 Naxals with weapons surrendered before police

In a major success with 21 Naxals surrendering before the Chhattisgarh Police, Bastar Inspector General (IG) P Sundarraj categorically stated on Wednesday that Naxalites must either "surrender" or "face combat" and "welcome those who surrender".

Speaking with ANI on Wednesday, Inspector General Bastar P Sundarraj said, "On 26 October, a total of 21 Maoists surrendered their weapons and joined the mainstream. Keshkal Division Committee Secretary Mukesh, along with 13 women cadres and 8 male cadres carrying 18 weapons, surrendered to join the mainstream. The administration is providing them with all kinds of assistance for their rehabilitation."

Earlier, Chattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday said that the "backbone of Naxalism is broken" after 21 Maoist cadres, including 13 women, surrendered in the Kanker district. Calling it a success of the 'Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy', the Chief Minister said that the "misled" youth is beginning to choose the path of development.

In an X post, CM Sai wrote, "The end of the anti-people Maoist ideology through 'Puna Margem,' Establishment of peace in Bastar. Today, in Kanker district, under the 'Puna Margem - From Rehabilitation to Revival' initiative, 21 Naxalites have abandoned the path of violence and surrendered. This is a meaningful testament to the success of our 'Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy - 2025' and the 'Niyad Nella Nar Scheme,' which is fostering a new wave of trust and transformation in Naxal-affected areas."