A significant breakthrough for peace and order in Chhattisgarh was announced on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, as a total of 51 Maoists voluntarily surrendered in the Bijapur district. Among those who laid down their arms, 20 individuals carried substantial bounties, collectively amounting to ₹66 lakh, according to local police reports.
This mass surrender included nine women, all choosing to abandon their violent past. Their decision to return to civilian life was influenced by Chhattisgarh’s progressive rehabilitation policy and ongoing development efforts, as stated by Bijapur Superintendent of Police (SP) Jitendra Kumar Yadav. This event represents a crucial stride in the state government’s relentless pursuit to eradicate Naxalism through peaceful dialogue and inclusive growth.
The surrender was facilitated through the ‘Poona Margem – Punarwas se Punarjeevan‘ initiative, which translates to ‘rehabilitation for social integration.’ This impactful program was strategically launched by the Bastar Range police to provide a pathway for former insurgents to rejoin society and build new lives.
The group comprised a diverse range of cadres, including five members from the notorious Peoples’ Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) battalions (numbers 01, and company numbers 01, 02, and 05), seven members from various area committees and platoons, three from the local organisation squad (LOS), one militia platoon commander, 14 militia platoon members, and 20 other lower-ranking members. This broad spectrum of surrendering individuals highlights the program’s reach and effectiveness.
These recent surrenders add to a growing trend in Bijapur. Since January 2024, an impressive 650 Maoists have reintegrated into mainstream society. Over the same period, authorities have neutralized 196 insurgents in encounters and arrested 986 others, underscoring the comprehensive approach taken by the state to counter insurgency and foster peace.