In a significant blow to the banned CPI (Maoist) organisation, Area Committee Member (ACM) Sukhram Markam, also known as Suresh or Yogesh, surrendered before Malkangiri Police.
He renounced violence, severed all links with extremist activities, and expressed faith in the democratic process.
During the surrender, Markam laid down an SLR rifle, a magazine, 12 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, two improvised explosive devices, codex wire, a Maoist uniform, and other articles. Police confirmed that his decision marks the final blow to Maoist cadres in Malkangiri, effectively making the district Naxal-free.
Markam, aged 32, had been active since 2010 and was involved in multiple violent incidents, including abductions, civilian killings, armed dacoity, IED blasts, and exchanges of fire with security forces in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. He also underwent training in Maoist ideology and motivated villagers to join extremist activities.
Odisha Police stated that sustained security pressure, disillusionment with Maoist ideology, lack of local support, and the state’s new surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy influenced his decision. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s repeated appeals also encouraged cadres to abandon violence and join mainstream society.
Under the rehabilitation policy, Markam will receive benefits worth Rs 21 lakh, including an interim relief of Rs 25,000, a house under Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, a one-time marriage incentive of Rs 25,000, free enrollment in skill development programmes with a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 for up to 36 months, health card coverage, and subsidised ration under welfare schemes.
The Director General of Police, Odisha, appealed to other Maoist cadres to surrender, assuring full support, protection, and rehabilitation. The police emphasised that surrendered cadres will be reintegrated into society with dignity and security.
