In a major breakthrough, 103 Maoists surrendered to authorities in Bijapur district, handing over weapons valued at more than Rs 1 crore, officials confirmed on Friday.
Incentives for Surrendered Maoists
The surrendered Maoists, who have now joined mainstream society, were each provided with a cheque of Rs 50,000 as part of a rehabilitation and incentive program. Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) P. Sundarraj highlighted that the initiative encourages insurgents to leave militancy and reintegrate into society.
Recent Encounter in Kanker
Earlier, on September 28, a fierce encounter occurred between security forces and Maoists in Kanker district, resulting in the neutralisation of three Maoists, including a female cadre. The clash took place in the forested hill area of Chhindkhadak village, under Kanker police jurisdiction, during a joint operation involving the District Reserve Guard (DRG) from Kanker and Gariaband and Border Security Force (BSF) personnel.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kanker, I K Elesela, stated:
“During the exchange of fire, two male Maoists and one female Maoist were neutralised. Among the deceased was an outlaw with a bounty of Rs 14 lakh.”
The security forces recovered weapons including one SLR, one .303 rifle, one .12-bore gun, and other Maoist-related materials from the site.
Strengthened Counter-Insurgency Operations
This development forms part of intensified counter-insurgency operations in the Bastar division, where security forces continue to target Maoist networks. Recent operations have neutralised several high-profile Maoists, significantly weakening the organisational structure of Naxal groups in the region.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the security personnel for their efforts, calling it a major victory against Naxalites, particularly along the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border in Narayanpur.
