Former Maoist commanders tie the knot at Hazaribagh Open Jail

In a gesture highlighting rehabilitation and reintegration, two former Maoist commanders lodged at Hazaribagh Open Jail got married in a ceremony attended by police and district administration officials, who joined the celebrations as wedding guests and blessed the couple.

The couple comprises Suresh Singh Munda, a resident of Baruhatu village under Bundu police station in Ranchi district, and Somwari Hembram, from Arahanga village in Tamar. Both had previously been active as Maoist commanders and were undergoing rehabilitation at the open jail after surrendering and giving up violence.

The wedding was organised within the jail premises through a special initiative by the police and district administration. The ceremonies were conducted according to traditional customs, while other inmates also participated in the celebrations and extended their wishes to the newlyweds.

Hazaribagh District Marriage Officer Rajesh Ekka formally registered the marriage at the venue, providing it with legal recognition.

Police and administrative officials took on the role of wedding guests, welcoming the couple and offering their blessings for a happy married life. Their participation also helped fill the absence of family members at the ceremony.

Inspector General of Prisons Sudarshan Kumar Mandal congratulated the couple and said the state was committed to ensuring a dignified life for those who chose peace over conflict. He added that several initiatives were being undertaken to rehabilitate surrendered Maoists and facilitate their integration into mainstream society.

The ceremony underlined the role of rehabilitation measures in helping former insurgents rebuild their lives. The administration’s initiative sought to convey that those who renounce violence and choose to return to mainstream society can receive institutional support in pursuing a stable and dignified future.