North Bastar Kanker (Chhattisgarh) [India], November 6 (HBTV): A total of 21 Maoist cadres, including 13 women, surrendered with 18 weapons in Kanker district on Sunday, Bastar Inspector General P Sundarraj said.
According to the official, the cadres were part of the Kuemari/Kiskodo Area Committee of the Keshkal Division (North Sub Zonal Bureau). Among those who surrendered were four Division Committee Members, including Division Committee Secretary Mukesh, nine Area Committee Members, and eight party members.
They surrendered three AK-47 rifles, four SLR rifles, two INSAS rifles, six .303 rifles, two single-shot rifles, and one BGL weapon, Sundarraj added.
He described the development as a ‘decisive step’ in the state’s efforts to curb Left Wing Extremism and said that the rehabilitation and reintegration process for the surrendered cadres was underway.
‘Another decisive step was achieved today in Kanker district as 21 more cadres voluntarily returned to the mainstream. This is a significant milestone in our efforts to curb left-wing extremist influence, build community trust, and promote peace and development in Bastar,’ Sundarraj said.
‘The rehabilitation and reintegration process for these 21 cadres is underway, reaffirming our commitment to a safer, inclusive, and progressive society. We once again urge the remaining Maoist cadres in the region to choose the path of peace and return to society, or be prepared to face the consequences,’ he added.
The latest surrender follows a landmark development in Chhattisgarh’s fight against Left Wing Extremism, when 208 Naxalites surrendered at an event held in Bastar’s Jagdalpur on October 17, taking an oath to uphold the Indian Constitution as they rejoined the mainstream.
Earlier on October 21, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the bravery and commitment of police personnel in combating Naxalism and fostering development in affected areas as the state observed Police Commemoration Day.
‘Police Commemoration Day is being observed to mark the sacrifices made by police and security personnel in the line of duty. The jawans ensure the safety of all by remaining in tough situations,’ the Chief Minister said.
Speaking about countering Naxalism, he added, ‘Security personnel have showcased extreme courage while fighting Naxalism. They have not just pushed Naxals on the back foot, but also ensured development in the area.’
The Centre and the state government have set a target to eradicate Naxalism from Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026.
(ANI)