Five Maoists Surrender in Dantewada; ‘Puna Margam’ Transforms Lives

Raipur, March 31, 2026: In a significant step towards peace and development in the Bastar region, five Maoists associated with the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee surrendered on Tuesday and returned to the mainstream of society. Among them were four women cadres. A total reward of ₹9 lakh had been announced on them.

During a surrender and rehabilitation programme held at Police Lines, Karli, the cadres renounced violence and pledged to lead a normal life. The initiative was carried out under the district’s “Puna Margam” (Rehabilitation to Renewal) campaign, which is emerging as a beacon of hope for youth affected by Naxalism.

Those who surrendered include ACM Some Kadti from the West Bastar Division, along with party members Lakhma Oyam, Sarita Podiyam, Jogi Kalmu and Moti Oyam. All of them were associated with the Bhairamgarh and Gangloor area committees.

Based on crucial information obtained from the surrendered cadres, security forces conducted operations at various locations and recovered a large cache of weapons. The haul included 8 SLR rifles, 3 INSAS rifles, 1 carbine, 1 .303 rifle and 5 BGL launchers, among a total of 40 lethal weapons. This is being considered a major success in anti-Naxal operations, dealing a serious blow to the Maoist organisation’s military strength.

Changing Ground Reality Through ‘Puna Margam’

Since 2024, as many as 607 Maoists have surrendered in Dantewada district, indicating a positive shift driven by rehabilitation policies and a growing atmosphere of trust. Increasingly, youth affected by Naxalism are choosing the path of development over violence.

In addition, joint anti-Naxal operations have led to the arrest of 92 Maoists and the neutralisation of 54 in encounters so far. Continuous coordinated efforts by security forces in border districts such as Dantewada, Bijapur, Narayanpur and Sukma have intensified pressure on Maoist groups.

The Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, stated that the aim of the “Puna Margam” initiative is to provide rehabilitation, security and a dignified life to those who abandon violence. The campaign is not only encouraging surrenders but also strengthening the environment of lasting peace, development and trust in the Bastar region.

Senior officials from the district administration, police and central security forces were present at the programme. They welcomed the surrendered individuals and assured full support for their reintegration into society.