THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Bhubaneswar, Dec 23: Odisha witnessed a significant development as 22 Naxals of the banned CPI (Maoist), including a senior Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) and six Area Committee Members (ACMs), surrendered before the police in Malkangiri district on Tuesday.
The cadres handed over nine firearms—including an AK-47, two INSAS rifles, an SLR, three .303 rifles, and two single-shot rifles—along with 150 live rounds, 20 kg of explosives, 13 IEDs, gelatin sticks, codex wire, and Maoist literature.
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State DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania was present during the surrender.
The move comes amid sustained pressure from security forces, disillusionment with the Maoist ideology, leadership gaps, lack of local support, and the state government’s surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy.
The cadres pledged to renounce violence, sever ties with Left-wing extremists, and embrace the democratic process.
Under Odisha’s rehabilitation scheme, the surrendered cadres will receive financial rewards totaling over Rs 1.84 crore. Each cadre has already received an interim relief of Rs 25,000.
Additional benefits include housing under the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, a one-time marriage incentive of Rs 25,000, skill development training, a stipend of Rs 10,000 per month for up to 36 months, health cards, and free or subsidised ration under schemes like PMGKAY.
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Police officials emphasized that the surrender reflects a conscious choice to embrace peace, development, and a law-abiding life, while the department assured prompt support to help the former militants reintegrate into society.
