79 Maoists Surrender in ASR District Over Past Year

Visakhapatnam: As many as 79 members of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) have surrendered in Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) district over the past year, highlighting the state government’s successful multi-pronged approach towards countering insurgency in tribal regions.

As per official data, 40 Maoists surrendered between May and December 2024, including one assistant committee member/deputy commander, five party / dalam members, and 34 militia members. Another 39 members surrendered in 2025 till May 14, consisting of one divisional committee member, seven assistant committee members/deputy commanders, one party / dalam member, and 30 militia members.

"Development has been the key factor in countering the Maoist ideology in our district," ASR Superintendent of police Amit Bardar told this correspondent. He attributed the success in weaning away Maoists in ASR district to multiple factors, including increased police presence, installation of mobile towers, technological advancements, connectivity to previously neglected villages, and the ongoing conflict Maoists are facing in the neighbouring Chhattisgarh region, where security forces are carrying out continuous operations against Maoist insurgents.

"The Maoist ideology initially gained traction due to a lack of development in tribal areas. But that narrative no longer holds true. We've seen significant infrastructure improvements and government outreach programmes that have changed the dynamics,” explained the SP.

According to him, forced recruitment has been a major factor driving tribal youth into Maoist ranks. "Many join under duress. But now, they see viable alternatives through government schemes," he said. Amit Bardar pointed to women cadres citing discrimination within Maoist organisations as the reason for their surrender.

AP’s Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy provides substantial incentives to those willing to re-join mainstream society. Surrendered Maoists receive an immediate financial grant of Rs 5 lakh as a fixed deposit (withdrawable after three years), housing support under schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, free education for their children, and government-backed skill development programmes.

Additional incentives are provided for surrendered weapons on a sliding scale, with Rs 25,000 for AK-47 rifles, Rs 15,000 for SLRs and carbines, and Rs 10,000 for pistols and revolvers, with higher rewards for advanced or foreign-made arms.

Special attention is given to women cadres through gender-sensitive rehabilitation planning and support for childcare, education and maternal health.

Despite these successes, officials acknowledge that challenges remain, particularly in remote forest areas where Maoist influence persists. "We're continuing to digitize tracking systems and conduct intelligence-led operations to ensure surrender remains a safe and beneficial option," the SP stated.