Raipur: The Chhattisgarh government has taken a major step towards strengthening peace, rehabilitation and development in areas affected by Maoist violence. Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma has directed officials to conduct a legal review of non-serious Maoist-related cases in which no loss of life occurred and begin the process of releasing eligible prisoners after following due legal procedures.
The decision was announced during a high-level meeting chaired by Vijay Sharma with senior police officials to review security, rehabilitation and development measures in Maoist-affected regions.
Special Legal Team to Examine Non-Serious Maoist Cases
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma instructed that a special team of prosecutors and legal experts be formed with assistance from the Law Department.
The team will examine cases linked to Maoist violence and assess the possibility of withdrawal of cases wherever legally permissible.
The review will focus on cases classified as non-serious, particularly those where no person was killed. Eligible accused persons may be released after completion of the required legal process.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Principal Secretary Niharika Singh Barik, Secretary Neha Champawat, Additional Director General of Police Vivekanand Sinha and other senior officers.
Chhattisgarh Declared Free from Armed Maoist Groups
The government highlighted that Chhattisgarh was officially declared free from armed Maoist groups on March 31, 2026.
Following this achievement, the state government has shifted its focus towards long-term peace-building, rehabilitation and accelerating development in villages that were earlier affected by Maoist activities.
₹1 Crore Development Works for Maoist-Free Villages
The Chhattisgarh government has announced a special development initiative for villages that have passed resolutions declaring themselves free from Maoist influence.
Under the plan, each such village will receive development works worth ₹1 crore.
Currently, 50 villages have been identified for this initiative, including:
- 20 villages in Sukma district
- 20 villages in Bijapur district
- 10 villages in Narayanpur district
The development projects will focus on improving basic infrastructure and strengthening public services in these areas.
Flag Hoisting in Maoist-Free Villages on Independence Day
As part of efforts to rebuild confidence among local communities, the government has decided that all villages declared free from Maoist violence will host Independence Day flag hoisting ceremonies on August 15.
The initiative aims to promote national unity, confidence and a stronger connection between communities and government institutions.
Priority Housing Support for Affected Families
The government has directed officials to provide permanent houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana on priority to families affected by Maoist violence.
The move is aimed at improving living conditions and providing stability to families who suffered due to prolonged conflict.
Memorials Planned for Security Personnel and Civilian Victims
The state government has also decided to establish community memorials at appropriate locations in memory of security personnel and civilians who lost their lives during Maoist violence.
Officials have been instructed to ensure that financial assistance and other government support reach affected families without delay.
Faster Rehabilitation Support for Surrendered Youth
The government has directed authorities to speed up rehabilitation benefits for youths who surrender under the state’s rehabilitation policy.
Officials have been instructed to ensure that eligible surrendered individuals receive incentive assistance within one month.
A dedicated monitoring dashboard will also be developed to track the progress of rehabilitation benefits and schemes.
Special Committee to Recover Looted Weapons
To strengthen security measures, the government will establish a special committee for:
- Recovery of weapons looted during Maoist activities
- Better coordination between states
- Strengthening intelligence and security efforts
Government Focuses on Peace, Development and Reintegration
With the reduction of Maoist influence in the state, the Chhattisgarh government is now focusing on a comprehensive approach combining legal reforms, development initiatives, rehabilitation support and community participation.
The latest measures aim to ensure lasting peace and bring affected regions into the mainstream of social and economic development.
Read also: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai Launches ₹128 Crore Development Projects to Boost Arang’s Growth
