Mass Maoist Surrender in Sukma: Crumbling Terrorism Reveals Cracks in Maoist Ideology

 

 

The mass surrender at the Sukma District Police Headquarters is a proof of waning morale in Maoists ranks and an effective multi-pronged strategy by the government to take up the challenges posed by Left-Wing Extremism.

 

The surrendered Maoists included top operatives like Madkam Deve, vice-president of the Arlam Palli Revolutionary People's Committee (RPC), and Sodi Bhime active member in Golapalli Local Operating Squad(LOS) with a reward on her head worth Rs. 1 lakh.

 

It is commendable that they chose to surrender and this also reflects the declining charm of Maoist ideology coupled with intense pressure from security forces.

 

The surrendered Maoist revealed that their cadre have been involved in violent activities like placing IEDs on roads, conducting recce of security forces and creating terror among the locals.

 

These surrenders not only result in the arrest of those who fought against the state but also give a lead to Security Forces which will demoralise the entire Maoist network.

 

A key factor in the Maoists giving up violence has been a well-planned rehabilitation policy framed by the Chhattisgarh government. The policy provides benefits of financial assistance, skill development training and opportunities for reintegration into mainstream society to the Maoists who give up arms.

 

This strategy, combined with vigorous pressure by security forces has made conditions conducive for the Maoists to abandon their bullet and lead a peaceful life.

 

The establishment of the security camps in the remote interiors combined with targeted operations and intelligence-based interventions have disrupted a large part of Maoist capacity to operate freely.

 

The capacity of the Maoists to carry out attacks has been severely impacted, and more importantly so is their fear within them.

 

The surrender ceremony became a symbol of the commitment made by the government to overcome Maoist violence and pave the way for peace and development in the Maoist-affected areas.

 

The surrendering terrorists, some in tears, told the authorities of their past actions and promised to be useful for the society in future.

 

Such mass surrender is a victory in the war against Naxalism. It also shows that the government has an all embracing three-fold strategy: security steps plus development projects and rehabilitation efforts.