Major Breakthrough in Anti-Naxal Operations
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, announced a significant milestone in the fight against Naxalism, with 258 Naxalites surrendering in Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra over the past two days. This development marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to eradicate Naxal terror in India.
Details of the Surrender
On October 16, 2025, 170 Naxalites surrendered in Chhattisgarh, following 27 surrenders in the same state and 61 in Maharashtra the previous day. Among those who laid down their arms were 10 senior operatives, including Satish alias T. Vasudeo Rao, a Central Committee Member (CCM) with a bounty of Rs. 1 crore. Other key figures included Ranita (SZCM, Secretary of Maad DVC), Bhaskar (DVCM, PL 32), Nila alias Nande (DVCM, IC and Secretary of Nelnar AC), and Deepak Palo (DVCM, IC and Secretary of Indravati AC), with rewards ranging from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh.
Weapons Surrendered
The surrendered Naxalites turned in a significant cache of automatic weapons, including AK-47s, INSAS rifles, SLRs, and .303 rifles, further weakening the Naxalite arsenal.
Government’s Resolve to End Naxalism
Shri Amit Shah emphasized that these surrenders reflect the success of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s government in curbing Naxalism. He stated, “Naxalism is breathing its last due to the relentless efforts of the Modi-led government.” The Home Minister reiterated the government’s clear policy: those who surrender are welcomed, while those who persist in violence will face the full force of Indian security agencies.
Progress in Chhattisgarh
Since January 2024, after the formation of the new government in Chhattisgarh, 2,100 Naxalites have surrendered, 1,785 have been arrested, and 477 have been neutralized. Notably, regions like Abujhmarh and North Bastar, once notorious as Naxal strongholds, have been declared free of Naxal terror, marking a significant victory for security forces.
Call to Join the Mainstream
Shri Amit Shah applauded the Naxalites’ decision to renounce violence and place their trust in the Constitution of India. He urged those still engaged in Naxal activities to lay down their arms and join the mainstream, reinforcing the government’s commitment to eliminating Naxalism by March 31, 2026.
A Landmark Day
In a post on X, Shri Amit Shah described the surrenders as a “landmark day in our battle against Naxalism.” He highlighted the government’s determination to uproot Naxalism, stating, “We are committed to decimating Naxalism before March 31, 2026.”