Maoists Surrender in Rayagada, Odisha: 15 Rebels Lay Down Arms
Rayagada, Odisha: In a landmark development, 15 hardcore Maoists, including two senior State Committee Members, surrendered before Shri Sanjeeb Panda, IPS, ADG (Anti-Naxal Operations).
The surrender marks a significant setback for left-wing extremism in Odisha and reflects growing trust in the government’s development-oriented policies.
The group, active across Rayagada, Kandhamal, Gajapati, and Kalahandi districts, handed over 14 sophisticated firearms, including AK-47s, SLRs, and INSAS rifles, along with ammunition worth nearly Rs 16 lakhs.
Collectively, they carried rewards of Rs 1.98 crores, with leaders Nikhil and Indu each valued at Rs 55 lakhs.
Officials highlighted that the Maoists will benefit from Odisha’s Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy, which provides financial assistance, vocational training, and skill development opportunities to aid reintegration.
Panda emphasised that several districts, including Nuapada, Nawarangpur, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Boudh, are now completely Naxal-free, urging remaining cadres to follow suit.
The surrender ceremony was attended by senior police and administrative officers, underscoring the government’s commitment to peace and progress in the region.
