October 18, 2025

Bastar, a notorious battleground in Chhattisgarh, is witnessing a stunning moment in its long fight against Naxalism. A massive group of 170 Maoist guerrillas took a bold step this Friday, surrendering to the authorities in what is called the largest mass surrender in the area's history of Left-wing extremism. This event was celebrated as a “landmark day” by Home Minister Amit Shah, showing the government’s strong grip on the Red Corridor. The surrender ceremony took place in Jagdalpur, with top leaders like Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy CM Vijay Sharma watching on. Just days earlier, in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli, 62 Maoists including senior leader Mallojula Venugopal Rao, known as Bhupathi, had also laid down their weapons, joining the wave of peace. Among the surrenderers in Bastar are well-known commanders like Rupesh and Ranita, the Marh division head. Rupesh, a long-time Maoist leader with two decades of experience, had even reached the group's central committee. Despite his top role, he chose to break away from the violent path and surrender. Social media is buzzing with videos and photos showing armed guerrillas, including women, moving through forests and fields to the camps where they gave up their arms peacefully. Home Minister Amit Shah didn’t hold back his excitement. He declared, “Abujhmarh and North Bastar that were once terror bases have today been declared free from Naxal terror... A trace of Naxalism exists in south Bastar, which will be wiped out soon by security forces.” He added, “Our policy is clear: those who want to surrender are welcome, and those who continue to wield the gun will meet the wrath of forces. I appeal again...lay down weapons and join the mainstream. We’re committed to uprooting Naxalism before March 31, 2026.” This huge surrender signals that Naxalism is losing ground fast, thanks to the “relentless efforts of the Modi government,” Shah said. As the government pushes forward with its mission, Bastar is turning into a shining example where peace is winning over terror.

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Tags: Maoists, Bastar, Surrender, Naxalism, Amit shah, Red corridor,