Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur
Raipur, Aug 20: In a major boost to Chhattisgarh’s anti-Naxal strategy, four notorious Maoists — including a husband-wife duo — have laid down arms in Kondagaon district, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The surrender took place before Superintendent of Police Y. Akshay Kumar, who stated that the group carried a collective bounty of Rs 22 lakh and had been active across several insurgency-affected districts including Bastar, Kanker, Dantewada, and Manpur Mohla.
Among the surrendered were 30-year-old Laxman Korram alias Junnu, a senior Maoist leader with a bounty of Rs 8 lakh, and his wife Maddo alias Zarina, 25, from Dhankapara in Bastar, who carried a Rs 5 lakh reward.
The other two insurgents were identified as 40-year-old Pandu Ram from Rae village in Kanker (Rs 1 lakh bounty), and 30-year-old Sakharam from Chhote Odagaon in Kondagaon (Rs 8 lakh bounty).
All four had been involved in a series of violent crimes, including attacks on security personnel, civilian killings, arson, looting, and sabotage of public infrastructure.
Their decision to surrender was reportedly influenced by the recently upgraded Naxalite Surrender, Victim Relief, and Rehabilitation Policy 2025 introduced by the Chhattisgarh government. The policy offers financial assistance, vocational training, and reintegration support to those willing to give up arms.
As part of the immediate rehabilitation measures, each surrendered Maoist received Rs 50,000. The revamped policy promises complete reintegration within 120 days, covering education, employment opportunities, and personal security.
Officials highlighted that the couple's motivation stemmed from a desire to start a peaceful life and take advantage of the supportive framework offered under the policy.
This surrender reflects an ongoing shift in the region, where a growing number of Maoists are stepping away from violence, driven by the dual pressure of intensified security operations and attractive rehabilitation options.
State authorities and law enforcement have welcomed the development as a critical success in the broader campaign to dismantle Maoist influence and restore long-term peace in Chhattisgarh.
The Kondagaon event underscores the state’s evolving strategy — balancing force with reform — to counter insurgency and foster stability in affected areas.