Chhattisgarh: Major Blow To Maoists As 21 Cadres Surrender In Kanker

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday mentioned in the 127th episode of Mann Ki Baat that Maoism is nearing its end in the country, 21 hardcore Maoists, including senior cadres, laid down their arms and surrendered before authorities in Antagarh, Kanker district, on Sunday. The group deposited 18 sophisticated weapons, marking a boost to the state’s anti-LWE operations under the ‘Poona Margham’ rehabilitation policy.

Reacting to the surrender, state Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai wrote on his X handle, “The ‘Puna Margem – Rehabilitation to Regeneration’ initiative has emerged as a transformative force in Bastar, dismantling the anti-people ideology of Maoism and ushering in a new era of peace and progress. In a significant development today, 21 Naxalites in Kanker district renounced violence and surrendered, reaffirming the growing success of the ‘Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy – 2025’ and the ‘Niyad Nella Naar Scheme'.

"These policies are fostering trust and hope in regions long affected by extremism. Young individuals, once misled by the false promises of Maoist ideology, are now embracing the path of development and opportunity. The shift from guns to growth reflects a deeper realization that sustainable progress lies in constructive engagement, not conflict. The government remains fully committed to rehabilitating surrendered Naxalites, ensuring they are reintegrated into society with dignity and purpose.”