Odisha Overhauls Maoist Surrender Policy with Enhanced Benefits

The Odisha government has updated its Maoist surrender and rehabilitation policy, increasing financial incentives and rewards for surrendered firearms. High-ranking cadres receive up to Rs 5 lakh, with additional benefits for those surrendering weapons. The policy aims to reduce extremism by offering employment opportunities, deterring ex-Maoists from reverting to violence.

The Odisha government has taken a decisive step in combating left-wing extremism by revising its Maoist surrender and rehabilitation policy. The updated policy, revealed by the Home department on Thursday, doubles financial aid for high-ranking surrendering cadres, offering up to Rs 5 lakh.

Further incentivizing the surrender of firearms, the amended policy provides substantial rewards for weapons handed over in working condition. For example, an AK-47 rifle fetches Rs 3.3 lakh, a significant increase from the previous Rs 10,000. This initiative categorizes Maoist cadres into two groups, with high-ranking individuals, such as politburo members, classified as Category A.

The policy's core aim is to curb left-wing extremism by providing gainful employment and entrepreneurial avenues for surrendered Maoists, thus preventing them from returning to violence. With additional provisions for large rewards, the policy seeks long-term behavioral change, ensuring sustained peace in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)