Major Surrender of Naxalites in Chhattisgarh: 63 Join Mainstream Society
Significant Surrender of Naxalites in Dantewada
In a notable achievement against Naxalism, security forces in the South Bastar region of Chhattisgarh witnessed a significant development on Friday. A total of 63 Naxalites, including 18 women, chose to surrender in Dantewada district, opting to reintegrate into mainstream society. According to police reports, among those who surrendered, 36 were individuals for whom the government had announced a collective reward of ₹1.19 crore. These individuals laid down their arms in front of senior police and administrative officials.
Government Officials' Remarks
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai remarked that this act of surrender symbolizes not just a return but also a step towards trust, transformation, and a new life. Police officials indicated that the surrender was a significant success in the ongoing anti-Naxal operations, influenced by the 'Puna Maragem' (Rehabilitation to Revitalization) initiative, which encouraged these 63 individuals, including the 36 with bounties, to join the mainstream.
Details of the Surrender
The surrendered Naxalites were active in regions such as South Bastar, West Bastar, Abujhmad, and Odisha. Among them, 36 had bounties of ₹1.19 crore placed on their heads. Senior officials, including Rakesh Chaudhary, Deputy Inspector General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Dantewada Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai, were present during the surrender.
Profiles of Key Surrendered Naxalites
Among those who surrendered were divisional committee member Paklu alias Renu (45), Mohan alias Sanjay (32), president of the West Bastar Division Student Organization, Sumitra alias Draupadi (30), secretary of the Bhairamgarh Area Committee, and several others, all of whom had bounties of ₹8 lakh each. Additionally, seven other Naxalites had rewards of ₹5 lakh, eight had ₹2 lakh, 11 had ₹1 lakh, and three had ₹50,000 each.
Immediate Support and Rehabilitation
Officials confirmed that all surrendered Naxalites would receive immediate assistance of ₹50,000 each and would be rehabilitated according to government policies. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai took to social media platform 'X' to express that this was a powerful step towards peace and development, marking a historic decision for the 63 Naxalites, including 18 women and 45 men, to abandon violence and join the path of development.
Government's Strategy and Future Outlook
Sai emphasized that this success is a direct result of the central government's strong resolve under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the clear, multi-faceted security and development strategy of Home Minister Amit Shah. The coordinated efforts of both the central and state governments have demonstrated that dialogue and development, rather than guns, are the sustainable solutions. The effective dismantling of Naxalism has led to rapid advancements in infrastructure, education, health, employment, and basic amenities in remote areas like Dantewada.
Recent Trends in Naxalite Surrender
This year marks the second major collective surrender of Naxalites in the Bastar region. Just days prior, on January 7, 26 Naxalites surrendered in Sukma district, contributing to a total of over 1,500 Naxalites who have surrendered in the state in 2025.
Reasons Behind the Change in Naxalite Sentiment
Police officials attribute the change in mindset among Naxalites to the government's rehabilitation policies and initiatives like 'Loan Varraatu' (Come Back Home). The establishment of new security camps and ongoing development projects in interior areas have significantly weakened the Naxalite base.