Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh), December 17 (HBTV): Deep in the dense jungles of Chhattisgarh, where the rustling leaves once whispered secrets of rebellion and survival, lived individuals trapped in a life they hadn't chosen. These were the surrendered Naxals—men and women who had walked the shadowy path of violence as part of the banned outfit.
For years, they roamed through the forests under the doctrine of the so-called 'Jantana Sarkar,' the Naxals' 'people's government.' Some joined willingly, drawn by promises of justice and revolution. Others were coerced, forced to abandon their homes, dreams, and families. For many, ideology became a cage.
Over time, disillusionment set in. The ideals they once clung to unraveled, revealing a harsh reality. Constant fear, endless marches, and lost personal freedoms weighed heavily on their spirits. One by one, they chose a different path. Surrendering was fraught with danger, but hope for a better life pulled them forward.
Emerging from the shadows, they were given a second chance. Surrender meant leaving behind violence and reclaiming humanity. Once isolated, they were now integrated into society. Many were offered opportunities to rebuild their lives, some even joining the Chhattisgarh Police to protect communities they once opposed.
Their new roles brought purpose and stability. The past lingered, but so did hope. They were no longer fugitives but citizens forging a new path.
Former Militia Commander Shankar Madka, once carrying a Rs 5 lakh bounty, shared his journey from violence to rehabilitation. "I joined Naxalism in 2007 and left in 2023. From 2019 to 2023, I led a militia company. My team and I killed two STF personnel and looted their weapons," Madka revealed.
He recounted the dominance of the Naxal-led 'Jantana Sarkar,' where even the police feared to enter. After surrendering, his life transformed. "Now, I feel better being in the mainstream, meeting officers and ministers," he said. Expressing gratitude, he added, "I want to tell the Home Minister that I have been given a new life and job. The SP offered me a police job."
Another surrendered Naxal, Sukanti, recalled, "I joined in 2003 and surrendered in 2018. We were promised singing, dancing, and joy, but saw only death. I left because I couldn't take it anymore. Now, I live happily."
Sandhya, who surrendered in 2014 after joining in 2001, shared, "We were told we would serve the poor, but reality was different. I surrendered when I realized the truth."
According to Chhattisgarh government data, 5,559 Naxals surrendered in the Bastar region between 2009 and 2024. Sukma recorded the highest number of surrenders with 1,949, followed by Dantewada (1,090), Bijapur (626), Narayanpur (585), Bastar (559), Kondagaon (358), and Kanker (118).
Surrenders have remained consistent in recent years. Up to December 5, 2024, 802 Naxals surrendered compared to 398 in 2023, 415 in 2022, 551 in 2021, 342 in 2020, 312 in 2019, 462 in 2018, 368 in 2017, 1,210 in 2016, 324 in 2015, and 375 in 2014.
(ANI)