A New Dawn of Peace: 210 Maoists Join the Path of Development — “This is Chhattisgarh’s Victory,” Says Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai
This marks the positive outcome of Chhattisgarh’s effective rehabilitation policy.
Jagdalpur. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, addressing a press conference in Jagdalpur, described the day as a historic and significant one for Bastar, Chhattisgarh, and the entire nation. He said, “Those who had once strayed away from society have today returned to the mainstream, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and faith in the government’s rehabilitation policy. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all of them.”
The Chief Minister added that it was painful to witness the suffering caused by Naxalism — for both victims and perpetrators alike. “After continuous study and under the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, we formulated one of the most effective rehabilitation policies. As a result, today, those who once walked the path of violence are now joining the stream of development,” he said.
He further noted that in the history of Chhattisgarh, it is unprecedented that more than 210 individuals have surrendered at once — a testament to the success of the government’s rehabilitation policy. The policy ensures not just housing but also essential facilities for the surrendered cadres. “Special provisions have been made in the housing and new industrial policies as well. We will ensure that all government welfare schemes benefit them so they can build a bright future,” he said.
Expressing satisfaction over the progress in the region, the Chief Minister remarked, “Areas once untouched by development due to Naxalism are now witnessing the impact of government schemes. Under projects like Niyad Nellanar, infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water, and healthcare is rapidly expanding. Better road connectivity is transforming lives. The surrendered individuals will receive financial assistance for three years to help them live dignified and stable lives.”
On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Shri Vijay Sharma said, “Today is a historic day for Bastar. Under the sensitive leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, we are fulfilling our commitment to peace and progress. In line with the sentiments of Bastar’s people, 210 members of Maoist organizations have chosen to surrender and begin a new life.”
He added, “Believing that society is greater than any organization, these Maoists decided to return to their communities. Traditional tribal leaders — Manjhis, Chalkis, Gaytas, and Pujaris — have welcomed them into the social mainstream.”
Deputy Chief Minister Sharma also revealed that many more are preparing to surrender soon. “Union Home Minister Amit Shah had set a target to eliminate Maoism by March 31, 2026 — and that goal is now becoming a reality. The desire to return to mainstream life is growing stronger. Our policy of rehabilitation is being effectively communicated to them. Today, the entire Maad Division Committee, the Gadchiroli Committee, Company 1, Company 10, the communication team, the press team, and the medical team have all surrendered. The north-western region is now completely clear of Maoist influence.”
The press conference was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao, Bastar MP Shri Mahesh Kashyap, Jagdalpur MLA Shri Kiran Dev, Chitrakot MLA Shri Vinayak Goyal, Dantewada MLA Shri Chaitram Atami, Chhattisgarh Beverages Corporation Chairman Shri Srinivas Rao Maddi, and other public representatives.
Senior police officials present included Director General of Police Shri Arun Dev Gautam, Additional DGP (Naxal Operations) Shri Vivekanand Sinha, senior officers from CRPF, BSF, and ITBP, Bastar Commissioner Shri Doman Singh, IG Shri Sundarraj P., Collector Shri Haris S., SP Shri Shalabh Sinha, and SPs from Kondagaon, Narayanpur, Dantewada, Sukma, and Bijapur districts, along with officers from the central armed forces.
