Gadchiroli Sees Major Naxal Surrender: 60 Cadres Join Rao

A high-ranking CPI/Maoist official, Malloujula Venugopal Rao, identified as Sonu and a politburo member, has officially surrendered to authorities in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. He was accompanied by a considerable group of 60 Naxal cadres. This mass surrender is a direct result of sustained pressure from ongoing counter-insurgency campaigns and reflects a growing disillusionment within the Maoist ranks. Rao had previously announced his intention to surrender in September, issuing a statement that resonated with many cadres, particularly those from Chhattisgarh and surrounding areas, who subsequently chose to support his decision. Authorities view this as a crucial success in their mission to eradicate left-wing extremism. The integrated approach involving central and state governments, under the guidance of the Union Home Minister, has proven effective. The surrender is expected to create a ripple effect, potentially leading to more cadres abandoning the insurgency and embracing rehabilitation programs, thereby contributing to peace in the Naxal-affected districts of Maharashtra.