Mass Surrender Marks Major Success in Government's Anti-Naxal Campaign

In a significant win against Naxalism, 108 Maoists with Rs 3.95 crore bounties surrendered in Chhattisgarh. The move involved top-level commanders. Post-surrender, considerable arms were seized. Union Minister Amit Shah aims for total eradication of Naxalism by March 2026.

In a decisive victory against Naxalism, 108 notorious Maoists, who collectively had rewards totaling Rs 3.95 crore, have surrendered in Chhattisgarh, officials confirmed on Wednesday. This mass surrender is seen as a significant setback to the Naxalite movement in the region.

The surrender occurred across multiple districts: 37 Maoists in Bijapur, 30 in Dantewada, 18 in Sukma, 16 in Bastar, four in Narayanpur, and three in Kanker, all affiliated with the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee. Among those surrendering were six high-ranking divisional commanders, each carrying a reward of eight lakh rupees.

In addition to the surrender, security forces have confiscated a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, thanks to the intelligence provided by the former insurgents. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has set a target date of March 31, 2026, for the eradication of Naxalism across India.

(With inputs from agencies.)