Deputy Chief Minister and Forest Minister Tied Raksha Sutra by ‘Danteshwari Fighters’ – Surrendered Maoist Sisters

Government Ensures Security and Respect for Women Joining the Mainstream of Development

Bravery of Danteshwari Fighters an Inspiration for Other Women: Deputy CM Sharma

Raipur, Aug 2025 – On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma and Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap were tied raksha sutra (protective thread) by the ‘Danteshwari Fighters’ – surrendered Maoist sisters – at the Circuit House premises in Dantewada, symbolizing the sacred bond of brother and sister.

Speaking on the occasion, both ministers said they were witnessing a remarkable and inspiring moment where these women had left the path of extremism and embraced the mainstream of development. These are the same women who, despite facing difficult circumstances and struggles, have resolved to live with dignity and peace in society. They noted that today, in addition to them, the surrendered sisters tied raksha sutra to the District Panchayat Chairperson, public representatives, secretaries, commissioners, IG, DIG, Collector, SP, District Panchayat CEO, and senior officials present, conveying that the brother-sister bond is not just a ritual, but a pledge of security, affection, and respect.

Deputy CM Shri Vijay Sharma said that any woman still on the path of violence will be warmly welcomed by society if she chooses to return to the mainstream. “We will accept them as sisters, take full responsibility for their safety and dignity, and provide every possible assistance for their livelihood. Raksha Bandhan is not merely a festival but a promise of trust, belonging, and mutual protection. The affection and respect shown to me today by these sisters is unforgettable. The government is fully committed to bringing peace, dignity, and prosperity to the lives of these women and all citizens of Bastar,” he said.

During the event, the Deputy CM, Forest Minister, public representatives, and officials also planted saplings in the Circuit House premises. In addition, under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga, Har Ghar Swachhta – Azadi Ka Utsav with Cleanliness’ campaign by the Public Health Engineering Department, a cleanliness awareness vehicle was flagged off.

The event was attended by MLA Shri Chautaram Atami, District Panchayat Chairperson Shri Nandlal Mudami, Vice-Chairperson Shri Arvind Kunjam, Municipal Council Chairperson Smt. Payal Gupta, Panchayat and Rural Development Secretary Shri Bhim Singh, Bastar Commissioner Shri Doman Singh, IG Bastar Range Shri Sundarraj P., DIG Shri Kamlochan Kashyap, Collector Shri Kunal Dudawat, SP Shri Gaurav Roy, District Panchayat CEO Shri Jayant Nahta, Additional Collector Shri Rajesh Patre, and other public representatives and officials.