Mass Naxal Surrender in Narayanpur Boosts State’s Rehabilitation Efforts

Narayanpur district in Chhattisgarh has witnessed a substantial wave of surrenders, with 28 Naxalites choosing to abandon their insurgency. The group includes 22 individuals who were collectively valued at Rs 89 lakh by authorities, indicating their past significance within Maoist ranks. The decision to surrender, made by 19 women and nine men, was reportedly influenced by the Chhattisgarh government’s progressive development and rehabilitation programs. Specifically, the ‘Niyad Nellanar’ scheme, which prioritizes development in underserved conflict zones, and the ‘Poona Margham’ initiative, aimed at successfully reintegrating former Maoists into mainstream society, played a crucial role. Among the prominent figures were four hardcore members, including Divisional Committee member Pandi Dhruv alias Dinesh, along with Dule Mandavi alias Munni, Chhattis Poyam, and Padni Oyam, who were part of the East Bastar division’s Military Company No 6. Each of these key figures had a reward of Rs 8 lakh placed on them. Additionally, multiple area committee members, each with a Rs 5 lakh bounty, also surrendered. The surrender was accompanied by the handover of valuable firearms, including an SLR, an INSAS rifle, and a .303 rifle. All 28 individuals will now benefit from the state’s comprehensive rehabilitation policy, offering them a chance at a peaceful life.