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A significant setback has been dealt to Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. In Dantewada and Narayanpur, 29 Naxals, including one carrying a ₹55 lakh reward, have surrendered. They laid down their arms before the security forces. 21 Naxals surrendered in Dantewada and 8 in Narayanpur. 13 of the Naxals who surrendered in Dantewada had a combined reward of ₹25.50 lakh.
In Narayanpur, the eight Naxals who surrendered carried a reward totaling ₹30 lakh. Notable figures among those who surrendered include Sukhlal Jurri, Himanshu Midiyam, Kamla Gota, and Raju Podiyam. The surrendered Naxals were provided with financial assistance of ₹50,000 and other benefits under the government’s rehabilitation policy.
In the past 18 months, 390 Naxals have surrendered in Dantewada, including 99 with rewards. The surrender of 29 Naxals in Dantewada and Narayanpur is a result of the ongoing campaign against Naxalism in Chhattisgarh and development programs like Niyad Nellanar, which are increasing fear among Naxals and encouraging them to leave the organization. According to government figures, over 390 Naxals, including 99 with rewards, have surrendered in Dantewada in the last 18 months.
In Narayanpur district, a total of 148 Naxals have surrendered to security forces this year. The surrendered Naxals are accused of attacking police teams and participating in incidents such as digging up roads, felling trees, and putting up Naxal banners and posters during Naxal bandh week.
Last August, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated during an event in Raipur that the country would be completely free of Naxalism by March 2026. Shah mentioned that significant action against Naxalism had been taken since the BJP government came to power in Chhattisgarh. From December 2023, 2619 Naxals have been arrested, surrendered, or eliminated. He also noted a 70% reduction in the number of deaths due to Naxal violence, and that several states have become free of Naxal influence.
