In a trend setting move, Chhattisgarh police hosted a rare marriage function with roughly 5,000 people in attendance, here on Saturday, at a sprawling Hata ground, where two surrendered Maoists entered into wedlock to the tune of band, baaja and baaraat.
It was a enjoyable experience for the people of insurgency-hit tribal stronghold Bastar region, many of whom covered several kilometres on foot, to attend the first ever such marriage.
The groom, laxman and bride Kosi had reportedly fallen in love when they were members of dreaded Maoist guerrilla group. However they recently gave up violence to lead a happy married life.
Top police officials in Bastar region which is hit by leftist militancy since late 1980s, claim that the police department-sponsored marriage function for two love birds, will inspire hundreds of young guerrillas, who have been forced to join the outlawed terror group Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist).
Police officials of Bastar region who have been actively involved in organising the mega marriage show, as part of rehabilitation drive of Chhattisgarh Government with a purpose to bring back the Maoists in the mainstream of development, told The Pioneer that hundreds of misguided youths will take a cue from Kosi and laxman to give up violence.
Chief Minister Raman Singh heaped praises on police for Rsan excellent social initiative’ and asserted, ‘the marriage function will bring a big change in violence-hit Bastar. “Such initiative will not only change the face of Naxal infested areas but also help in restoring peace’’, remarked Singh.
Kosi, according to police was a member of Platoon number 26 of Darbha Division and laxman, a member of local Operating Squad (lOS) Deputy Commander of Naxal Indravati Area Committee. The duo had surrendered along with their 23 associates just a few days back.
Police further stated that Kosi had played an active role in Jhiram Ghati massacre and Tahakwada attack while laxman was involved in several serious Maoist activities.
A social organization, Bastar Samajik Ekta Manch also helped police to organise and execute the marriage function. The, pre-marriage rituals started at Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Kangoli camp with folk Gondi folk songs. Marriage procession began from Kotwali premises on Saturday evening.
Police officials say that government would provide employment and residence to the newly married couple while recommendations have also been sent to absorb them as constables in police department.