Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen): In a major setback to the banned CPI (Maoist) outfit, four underground cadres of Party Member (PM) rank surrendered before Kandhamal Police, renouncing violence and rejoining the democratic mainstream. The surrender is being seen as a significant success in ongoing anti-Maoist operations in the region.
The cadres were identified as Ganga Kunjami @ Jiten, Muchaki Mase @ Sumitra, Chomali Kunjam @ Santila, and Bandi Madvi @ Malati. All hail from neighbouring Chhattisgarh. During the surrender, they laid down arms, explosives, ammunition, and other incriminating materials, including an SLR rifle and a bore gun.
Police officials said the cadres formally severed ties with extremist activities and expressed faith in democratic processes. Several factors contributed to their decision, including sustained appeals by Odisha Police, mounting pressure from security forces, ideological disillusionment, leadership vacuum within the outfit, and dwindling local support.
They will receive benefits under the state’s Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Policy, including ₹10 lakh reward money, ₹25,000 interim relief, housing under Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, marriage assistance, skill development training, ₹10,000 monthly stipend for 36 months, and health and ration benefits under PMGKAY.
Odisha Police assured full protection and rehabilitation support, urging remaining Maoist cadres to shun violence and join mainstream society.
