Major Naxalite Setback: Top Leader and 11 Cadres Surrender

In a crucial blow to the Naxal movement, a top leader and 11 members have surrendered in Gondia, Maharashtra. The surrenders include a significant weapons cache, marking a breakthrough in regional security. Authorities credit coordinated policing and outreach for encouraging the Naxalites to abandon violence.

In a significant development impacting the Naxal movement, Anant alias Vikas Nagpure, a prominent member of the Special Zonal Committee, along with 11 hardcore Naxalites, surrendered to the Gondia Police. This marks a remarkable achievement for security forces working in the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border area. Officials revealed that the group, collectively carrying a bounty of Rs 89 lakh, was involved in violent acts and extortion across multiple districts. A large cache of Naxal weaponry was also handed over during the surrender.

The surrendering Naxalites include DVCM Commander Nagasu Golu Wadde and several others such as Rano Poreti, Santu Poreti, and Sangeeta Pandhare. This marks the first major collective surrender following the death of top Naxal leader Hidma, which had left the organization with a leadership void. Ankit Goyal, Deputy Inspector General of Police in Gadchiroli Range, emphasized the success of police efforts and outreach in encouraging these members to lay down arms and pursue peace.

According to reports, a spokesperson for the Maoist MMC zone had expressed the intention to surrender approximately a week prior, leading to contact with police. Ultimately, the group surrendered, along with seven weapons. The Maharashtra government had placed a collective bounty of Rs 89 lakh on these individuals. Authorities stated that the surrendered individuals will be processed under the state's rehabilitation policy, and additional recoveries are anticipated.

(With inputs from agencies.)