Major Surrender of Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Sukma District

In a pivotal moment for Chhattisgarh, 29 Naxalites surrendered in Sukma district, signaling a major setback for Maoist forces. This event, part of the 'Pune Margem' rehabilitation initiative, highlights the effectiveness of recent security measures and the establishment of a new camp in Gogunda. Among those who surrendered was a leader with a significant bounty on his head. The trend of surrenders is rising, with over 1,500 reported in the state this year, aligning with the government's goal to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026. This development could reshape the region's security landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 16:31 IST

Significant Surrender of Naxalites

On Wednesday, 29 Naxalites associated with the banned CPI (Maoist) surrendered to authorities in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, marking a significant blow to Maoist influence in the Darbha division. Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavhan highlighted these surrenders under the 'Pune Margem' rehabilitation initiative, attributing the success to the state government's policies and the recent establishment of a security camp in Gogunda, which has dismantled a crucial Maoist stronghold.

Key Figures Among the Surrendered

Among those who surrendered was Podium Budhra, the leader of the Dandakaranya Tribal Farmers Labor Organization (DKMS), who had a bounty of ₹2 lakh on his head. The group also included members of the DKMS, militia, and Janatana government. Influenced by promises of security and reintegration into society, they chose to surrender in front of senior police and CRPF officials. The previously inaccessible area of Gogunda had served as a safe haven for Maoists in the Darbha division, but the newly established security camp has led to aggressive anti-Naxal operations, search missions, and sustained pressure, significantly weakening their activities.

Call for Peace

Chavhan urged the remaining Maoists to abandon violence for a dignified life. Recent trends indicate a surge in surrenders—63 individuals in neighboring Dantewada on January 8, and 7 in Sukma on January 7, with over 1,500 surrenders reported across the state in 2025. These developments align with the central government's deadline of March 31, 2026, for the eradication of Naxalism, reflecting a rise in surrenders amid robust security measures and policy incentives.