BASTAR: A total of 170 Maoist cadres have returned to the mainstream in one month in Bastar Division, including the surrender of the senior Maoist cadre of Bastar Range, DKSZCM Paparao and several DVCM-level cadres, Inspector General of Police in Bastar Range, Sundarraj Pattilingam said.
More than 343 graded weapons have been recovered, including AK-47, INSAS, SLR, BGL launchers and LMG. This has almost eliminated the Maoists’ military capability.
In the last 31 days, the recovery of Rs 6.75 crore in cash and 8 kilograms of gold (worth more than Rs 12 crore) clearly indicates a weakening of the Maoists’ funding sources.
IG Sundarraj said on April 1, 2026, that Bastar is witnessing a historic transformation under Mission 2026. A region that remained under the shadow of violence and fear for a long time is now decisively moving towards a new direction of peace, trust and development. The collective resolve of the security forces, local administration and the people of Bastar has almost realised the goal of a Naxal-free Bastar. Bastar is now confidently moving towards a new chapter of lasting peace, progress and public trust.
A large number of misguided Maoist cadres are leaving violence and returning to a dignified life under the ‘Poona Margham – Reintegration through Rehabilitation’ program. More than 2700 Maoists rehabilitated in 27 months, reflecting the growing environment of lasting peace and trust in Bastar.
Decisive security operations, continuous surrenders, and the recovery of weapons and dumps have nearly destroyed the organisation’s structure and combat capability.
In line with the government’s intent, the joint efforts of security forces, local administration, local people, and all concerned stakeholders are now bringing the goal of a Naxal-free Bastar to its formal completion.
The government had set a target of March 31, 2026, for Naxal-free India. (With inputs from ANI)
