PTI file photo of arms surrendered by Naxals

NEW DELHI: Sixteen Naxals surrendered in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district on Wednesday, nine of whom carried a combined reward of Rs 48 lakh. The cadres handed themselves over to senior police officials, expressing disappointment with what they called the “hollow” and “inhuman” Maoist ideology, atrocities against innocent tribals, and growing pressure from security forces, said Narayanpur superintendent of police Robinson Guria, as reported by news agency PTI. During interrogation, the surrendered Maoists told police that top Maoist leaders were misleading tribals, exploiting them instead of protecting land, water, forests, and promoting equality, the SP said. Inspector general of police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P said the surrender showed winds of change were blowing across Bastar. He added that disillusioned by violence and fear, these youth had chosen peace, education, and development, marking a new beginning for them, their families, and a step towards lasting peace in the region.He also noted that security efforts, public support, and rehabilitation policies have played a key role, adding that the surrender will encourage many more Maoists to return to the mainstream. In the past 20 months, a total of 1,837 Naxals have surrendered in the Bastar Range, covering seven districts, including Narayanpur.Among those who surrendered on Wednesday, Podiya Markam alias Ratan, a deputy commander of military platoon no. 1, Manoj Dugga, Sumitra alias Sunny Kursam, Vanila Farsa— all military company members and Gawade alias Diwakar, a divisional committee member, carried a bounty of Rs 8 lakh each. Others, including Budhu alias Kamlesh Usendi, an area committee member, carried Rs 5 lakh, while Madda Kunjam, Ravi alias Gopal Vadde, and Kare Korram carried Rs 1 lakh each. Last Friday, Union home minister said in Bastar asked Naxal commanders to shun violence and surrender by March 2026, or face intensified operations.“It’s high time Maoists should give up violence and their decision to surrender will be welcomed by the government with a red carpet,” he said.