In a major breakthrough for anti-insurgency efforts,26 Maoists from the Andhra–Odisha Border (AOB) Divisionsurrendered before the Sukma district police in Chhattisgarh on Thursday. Officials confirmed that the surrendered cadres collectively carried a reward of₹64 lakhon their heads.
The formal surrender took place at the Sukma district police office, where the Maoists laid down arms before Superintendent of PoliceKiran G. Chavan. According to police, the surrendered cadres were active in remote forested areas along the interstate border and had been involved in various insurgent operations.
Authorities said the group came forward under the government’s rehabilitation and surrender policy, which encourages Maoists to abandon violence and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Under the policy:
Each surrendered cadre will receive₹50,000 immediate financial assistance
Amonthly support of ₹10,000 for three yearswill also be provided
The administration will facilitate livelihood training and extend welfare benefits to ensure long-term self-reliance
Officials noted that relentless combing operations and coordinated offensives by State and Central forces have intensified fear among Maoist groups. Thousands of security personnel are currently deployed in Maoist-affected belts, shrinking the movement space for extremist cadres.
Recent encounters have also resulted in the deaths of several senior Maoist leaders, further weakening the organisation. Authorities believe more cadres may surrender soon as the group’s structure continues to collapse.
