In a landmark development in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, 67 hardcore Naxalites, including SZCM Ramanna Irpa alias Jagdish, who carried a bounty of Rs. 25 lakh, surrendered before the authorities. CM Vishnu Deo Sai described the mass surrender as a sign that the “night of Naxalism is ending” and a new era of peace and development has begun in the state. The total bounty on these surrendered cadres amounted to Rs. 2.54 crore.
State’s Rehabilitation Policy Yields Results
The Chief Minister stated that the surrender was the result of the state’s inclusive and citizen-centric policies, particularly the government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy. In a single day, 25 Naxalites surrendered in Bijapur, followed by 16 in Dantewada, 13 in Kanker, 8 in Narayanpur, and 5 in Sukma. These former insurgents have now pledged to return to the mainstream of society and participate in the state’s development journey.
1,570 Naxalites Returned to Mainstream in 18 Months
Highlighting the impact of sustained efforts by the government, Mr. Sai said that 1,570 Naxalites have surrendered in the last 18 months alone. “This figure is a testament to the success of our transparent governance, compassionate policies, and sincere efforts to rebuild lives through rehabilitation and opportunity,” he added.
Support from Centre and Infrastructure Push
Mr. Sai credited the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah for their continuous support in ensuring security and development in remote regions. He said that basic facilities like roads, drinking water, electricity, education, healthcare, and transport are now reaching the most Naxal-affected and backward areas, significantly weakening the influence of extremist forces.
“Puna Margem” Policy: A Path to Revival
Referring to the “Puna Margem: Revival through Rehabilitation” policy, the Chief Minister stated, “This policy is our pledge to ensure a better and brighter future for surrendered Naxalites.” He affirmed that the government is fully committed to their reintegration into society and to ensuring lasting peace in Bastar.
A Message of Hope and Transformation
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Sai said, “The surrender of 67 Naxalites is not just a security success—it is a message of hope. Bastar is moving forward, from fear to prosperity. The new dawn of development has truly arrived.”
