Turning a page on violence, 120 ex-Naxalites from the 2013 Jhiram massacre era toured Chhattisgarh Assembly on Friday, gaining firsthand insight into democracy. High-value surrendees like Rs 1 crore Maoist chief Rupesh and Rs 25 lakh Chaitu, who surrendered in Jagdalpur recently, headlined the group.
From the gallery, they tracked intense question hours, cross-party clashes, and legislative maneuvers—a world away from jungle hideouts. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai personally motivated them to join the mainstream, guaranteeing holistic rehabilitation support.
Pre-tour hospitality peaked at Deputy CM Vijay Sharma’s Nava Raipur residence. Eschewing formality, the evening brimmed with warm welcomes, petal showers, communal feasts, and one-on-one dialogues. Sharma delved into their journeys, eased anxieties, and outlined prosperity blueprints.
Dawn brought rigorous vetting before their eager assembly ingress. This initiative spotlights surging ex-rebel confidence in state reforms. By humanizing former adversaries, Chhattisgarh is rewriting its security narrative, fostering peace via inclusion and promise of brighter tomorrows.