‘Join Mainstream, Leave Violence Behind for Better Future’: Amit Shah to Surrendered Maoists

GG News Bureau
Jagdalpur, 16th Dec. Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed profound satisfaction during an interaction with a group of surrendered Maoists and insurgents from six states, held on Sunday. Addressing the gathering, Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to facilitating their reintegration into society and underscored the futility of violence.

“I am the happiest person today, more than you or your family, as our painstaking efforts to convince you to surrender and join the mainstream have borne fruit,” Shah remarked.

The event, attended by around 30 former Maoists from Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam, was described as “very significant” by Shah.

Highlighting the government’s initiatives since 2019, Shah revealed, “Following our efforts, 20 peace accords were signed in the northeast, leading to the surrender of 9,000 militants.” He added that the Centre had devised comprehensive rehabilitation policies for surrendered militants, including those injured in violence.

Rehabilitation Measures
The home minister detailed several measures aimed at aiding the transition of former insurgents into mainstream society. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 15,000 homes have been sanctioned for surrendered Maoists. Additionally, the National Dairy Development Board will provide at least one cow or buffalo per family, enabling them to earn ₹15,000–20,000 monthly.

Shah urged the former Maoists to encourage their peers to abandon violence and assured them of the government’s continued support. “The government will take care of your needs,” he said, instructing them to contact the Union Home Secretary directly for assistance through a simple postcard.

Aspirations for Bastar and Beyond
Looking ahead, Shah shared the government’s ambitious plans for the 2036 Olympic Games, slated to be hosted in Ahmedabad. He revealed that beginning in 2025, 35,000 youngsters would be trained to maximize India’s medal tally. “I want someone from Bastar to win at least one medal in the 2036 Olympics,” he added, envisioning the participation of youth from regions previously marred by insurgency.

Positive Outcomes of Surrender
During the interaction, surrendered Maoists shared their success stories, attributing their improved lives to government schemes. These included job opportunities in the police and private sectors, as well as access to bank loans for entrepreneurship.

Shah concluded his address with a call to peace, urging former insurgents to spread the message that violence is not a solution and that the path of surrender and rehabilitation is a gateway to a brighter future.