10 Naxalites surrender in MP’s Balaghat
Ten wanted Naxalites, including four women, surrendered before Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav in Balaghat on Sunday, marking a significant step in Madhya Pradesh’s push to eliminate Naxal influence.
Dr Yadav handed them copies of the Constitution as they laid down their weapons and urged other cadres to return to the mainstream, saying the state is committed to achieving Naxal-free status by January 2026.
He said the government, working in line with targets set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, will ensure the safety, rehabilitation and development of those who abandon violence. “No individual has the licence to take up arms. Those who choose the path of law will find full support in rebuilding their lives,” Dr Yadav said.
The Chief Minister said anti-Naxal operations have been strengthened through new camps, increased personnel and sustained field action. Fifteen temporary camps and 882 posts for a special support battalion have been sanctioned to reinforce the campaign. He said continuous surveillance, intensive checks and coordinated action have sharply reduced the Naxal footprint in the state.
Dr Yadav said last year’s opening of 46 single-window centres in affected regions has helped provide employment, forest rights documents and essential services, aiding rehabilitation efforts. Paying tribute to policeman Ashish Sharma, he said 328 Hawk Force personnel and other officers demonstrating exceptional service have been granted out-of-turn promotions.
Director General of Police Kailash Makwana said expanded operations, increased manpower and consistent encouragement for field teams have produced visible results, with surrenders rising in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states. Job and skill development initiatives, he said, are helping connect youth and residents in affected areas with the mainstream.
Transport and School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh, senior police officials and personnel attended the programme, where authorities released the names of all ten cadres who surrendered across Sukma, Bijapur, Dantewada and Gadchiroli.
