In a major breakthrough for security forces, 26 Maoists, including three with rewards on their heads, surrendered in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh.
The move comes amid an intensified operation against rebels in the state.
Dantewada Superintendent of Police, Gaurav Rai, confirmed that the surrendered Maoists belonged to various units such as the Jan militia, Revolutionary Party Committee, and Janatana Sarkar. The disillusionment with the Maoist ideology, coupled with the harsh realities of life in the forest and internal conflicts within their ranks, motivated their surrender.
Prominent among the surrendered cadres are Rajesh Kashyap, the Aamdai area Jan militia commander, carrying a bounty of Rs 3 lakh, and Kosa Madvi and Chhotu Kunjam, with rewards of Rs 1 lakh and Rs 50,000 respectively.
This year, a total of 521 Maoists have laid down arms, signaling a significant decline in their activities. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during a recent visit, urged rebels in the Bastar region to embrace peace and join the mainstream.
Youth Killed in Landmine Explosion in Narayanpur: Mahua Flower Gathering Turns Tragic as Maoists’ IED Claims a Life
In another incident, a youth lost his life, and another was critically injured in a landmine explosion in Narayanpur district. The tragedy unfolded in the Kutul forest when the two men ventured to collect mahua flowers. Unfortunately, one of them stepped on an IED planted by Maoists targeting security forces, triggering the deadly blast.
While one youth succumbed to injuries on the spot, the critically injured individual was rushed to the Narayanpur district hospital for treatment. The local villagers informed the CRPF camp, prompting swift action from personnel to assist at the site.
This incident highlights the ongoing dangers for civilians in Maoist-affected regions and calls for intensified efforts to ensure the safety of local communities.
