Bijapur, Security forces in Bijapur district achieved a major breakthrough in anti-insurgency operations as 52 Naxalites, including a high-ranking Divisional Committee Member (DCM), laid down their arms before the police on Thursday. The group, comprising 31 men and 21 women, carried a collective bounty of ₹1.41 crore. All surrendered cadres were reportedly involved in grave offences, including IED blasts, arson, and direct attacks on security personnel.
The surrender took place in the presence of senior officers, including CRPF DIG Devendra Singh Negi and Bijapur Superintendent of Police Dr Jitendra Yadav. Under the state government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy, each individual was provided an immediate cash incentive of ₹50,000. Officials have further assured them of skill training, livelihood support, and comprehensive assistance for social reintegration.
Police officials attributed this large-scale surrender to the success of the ‘Niyad Nellanaar’ (Your Good Village) scheme. The government initiative has accelerated infrastructure development in remote forest pockets, providing roads, electricity, healthcare, and education. This outreach has significantly weakened the Maoist support base, prompting local cadres to abandon the path of violence.
The year 2024 has marked a decisive phase in anti-Naxal operations across Chhattisgarh. Data released by the police indicates that since the start of the year, 824 Maoists have surrendered, 1,126 have been arrested, and 223 were neutralised in various encounters.
Additional SP Ulandan York and DSP Sharad Jaiswal were also present during the ceremony. The administration reiterated that the government remains committed to ensuring a safe exit for those willing to join the mainstream, emphasizing that peace is the only precursor to lasting development in the Bastar region.