Naxal Network Weakens: Key Accused in Congress Leaders’ Killing Surrenders; 10 Maoists, Carrying ₹65 Lakh Bounty, Lay Down Arms

Jagdalpur (The Uttam Hindu): In a major success for security forces in Chhattisgarh, a long-wanted Naxalite leader, Chaitu alias Shyam Dada, surrendered before the police in Sukma district on Friday. Chaitu, a member of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee, carried a bounty of ₹25 lakh. Along with him, nine other Maoists also gave up arms, bringing the total declared bounty on the group to ₹65 lakh.

Chaitu is believed to be the main mastermind behind the 2013 Jhiram Ghati Naxal attack, which claimed the lives of several senior Congress leaders in Chhattisgarh. He also previously headed the Darbha Division for a long time. Among the other surrendered Maoists is Saroj alias DCVM, who had a bounty of ₹8 lakh. The remaining eight are area committee members identified as Bhupesh alias Sahayak Ram, Prakash, Kamlesh alias Jhitru, Janani alias Raymati Kashyap, Santosh alias Sannu, Naveen, Ramshila, and Jayati Kashyap.

Police officials said the continuous anti-Naxal operations, the surrender of top commanders, and the state government's rehabilitation policy played a crucial role in motivating these members to return to the mainstream. Over the past few months, several senior Naxal cadres have surrendered, weakening the organisation and increasing internal pressure.

The surrendered Naxalites handed over rifles, pistols, explosives, and ammunition to the police. As per the Chhattisgarh government’s surrender policy, they will receive security, accommodation, and financial assistance.

The Director General of Police stated that the surrender of a hardcore militant like Chaitu is a major victory for restoring peace in Bastar. Over 150 Naxalites have either been killed or have surrendered so far this year. Authorities expect more members to join the mainstream in the coming days, marking a clearer path toward peace in the region.