44 women cadres among those laying down arms in Jagdalpur; Chief Minister says peace, development and rehabilitation policy encouraging extremists to return to mainstream
TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 12, 2026: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday described the surrender of 108 Maoist cadres in Bastar as a major breakthrough in the ongoing campaign against Left-wing extremism, stating that trust is gradually prevailing over violence in the region.
Referring to the mass surrender of armed Maoists carrying a combined bounty of ₹3.29 crore in Jagdalpur, the Chief Minister said the decision by a large number of cadres to abandon the path of violence and return to the mainstream reflects a positive transformation taking place in Bastar.
He said the development indicates that people in the region are increasingly choosing peace, stability and progress over conflict.
“The surrender of such a large number of Maoist cadres shows that the atmosphere in Bastar is changing. Trust in the system is growing and people are now moving away from violence towards peace and development,” Sai said.
The Chief Minister pointed out that 44 women cadres were among those who surrendered, calling it a significant development that reflects the growing confidence of women and communities in the region to embrace a peaceful future.
According to the state government, the surrendered cadres include members who were active in various Maoist units operating in Bastar and adjoining areas. Many of them carried monetary rewards announced by the government for their involvement in extremist activities.
Sai said the increasing number of surrenders is the result of the Chhattisgarh government’s comprehensive strategy that focuses on security operations, development initiatives and a strong rehabilitation policy aimed at encouraging Maoists to return to normal life.
He stated that the rehabilitation policy provides surrendered cadres with financial assistance, skill development opportunities, housing support and other welfare benefits to help them reintegrate into society and build a dignified livelihood.
The Chief Minister also credited the sustained and coordinated efforts of security forces, the administration and local communities for the success of anti-Maoist operations in the region.
“Our security forces have shown tremendous courage and commitment in combating extremism, while the administration has worked tirelessly to ensure that development schemes reach even the most remote areas of Bastar,” Sai said.
He added that the cooperation and support of local residents have also played a crucial role in weakening Maoist influence and encouraging extremists to surrender.
According to the Chief Minister, the state government has accelerated development work in Bastar in recent years, including improvements in road connectivity, healthcare facilities, education infrastructure and livelihood opportunities.
These efforts, he said, are helping to address the socio-economic challenges that once allowed extremist groups to gain influence in the region.
“Today the people of Bastar aspire to live a life free from fear and violence. They want development, education, employment and better opportunities for their children,” Sai said.
He emphasised that the government is committed to creating a secure environment in which the youth of Bastar can pursue education, employment and entrepreneurship instead of being drawn towards extremist activities.
Sai also highlighted the support of the central government in tackling Left-wing extremism. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, decisive action is being taken across the country to eliminate Maoist violence.
The Chief Minister said the Chhattisgarh government is working in close coordination with the Centre and security agencies to ensure that Maoism is eradicated completely from the state.
“Our objective is clear—to build a peaceful, secure and developed Chhattisgarh. Bastar is an integral part of this vision, and we are determined to transform the region into a symbol of progress and prosperity,” he said.
Sai reiterated that the state government is pursuing a three-pronged strategy of security, development and trust to achieve this goal. While security forces continue to maintain pressure on extremist groups, development projects and welfare schemes are being expanded to win the confidence of the local population.
He expressed confidence that with continued efforts and cooperation from all stakeholders, Bastar will soon witness lasting peace and rapid development.
“The state government remains firmly committed to creating a fear-free and prosperous Chhattisgarh where every citizen can live with dignity and opportunity,” the Chief Minister added.
