Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, December 15: Former Naxals who surrendered in Chhattisgarh were warmly welcomed at the Bastar Academy of Dance, Art, and Literature on Sunday. The reintegrated individuals, who laid down arms to join mainstream society, are scheduled to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah later today.
Among them, Sandhya, a former Naxal, reflected on her journey, revealing that she joined the movement in 2001 with hopes of serving the poor but surrendered in 2014 upon realizing the promises were empty. “We were told we’d serve the poor, but the reality was starkly different. After surrendering, I found a new path,” she shared.
Shankar Madka, a former Militia Company Commander, also narrated his transition. With a bounty of ₹5 lakh, Madka was involved in violent acts, including the killing of two Special Task Force personnel. Surrendering in 2023, he now feels a renewed sense of purpose. Employed by the police force, Madka expressed gratitude, saying, “The SP gave me a job. I am now part of the police and feel better as part of the mainstream.”
Sukanti, who left the movement in 2018, highlighted her disillusionment. “I joined in 2003, lured by promises of a better life, but was instead surrounded by violence and death. I surrendered to find peace, and now I live happily,” she recounted.
Earlier today, Amit Shah emphasized the Centre and Chhattisgarh government's dedication to eradicating Naxalism. He commended the police for their efforts, noting that in the past year, 287 Naxals were killed, approximately 1,000 arrested, and 837 surrendered. Shah is on a three-day visit to Chhattisgarh and will chair a high-level security review in Raipur, along with meeting surrendered Maoists and local communities in Jagdalpur.
This initiative showcases the government's focus on rehabilitation and security, aiming to bring sustainable peace to the region.
