Mass Surrender: 66 Naxalites Lay Down Arms in Chhattisgarh

A significant development in Chhattisgarh's Bastar division saw 66 Naxalites, including 49 with a total bounty of Rs 2.27 crore, surrender to authorities. The surrenders spanned five districts: Bijapur, Dantewada, Kanker, Narayanpur, and Sukma, and involved 27 female militants. Among those surrendering, high-profile names like Ramanna Irpa and his wife stand out, noted for their crucial roles within the Maoist organization.

Authorities attribute the wave of surrenders to growing dissatisfaction with the Naxalite movement's doctrine, internal discord, and the state government's developmental efforts in remote areas. The 'Niyad Nellanar' initiative, aimed at village development, and the state's new rehabilitation programs have played a significant role in these decisions, alongside the Bastar Range police's 'Poona Margham' reintegration project.

Officials report that with these latest surrenders, a total of 1,020 Naxalites have laid down their arms under the 'Lon Varratu' campaign since its launch in June 2020. The ex-militants will receive immediate assistance and further rehabilitation under state policy, marking a critical shift in Chhattisgarh's long-standing struggle with Naxalite violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)