Malkangiri: Two hardcore Maoists, both carrying cash rewards on their heads, surrendered on Sunday to Malkangiri’s Superintendent of Police (SP).
The rebels, Kanna Madi and Lake Punem expressed the desire to lead a normal life and contribute to the development of their area.
Kanna had joined in 2013 and was working as an Area Committee Member. He carried a bounty of Rs 4 lakhs on his head. He was suspected to be involved in about 10 cases which include murder, IED blast and exchange of fire with the security forces.
Lake was a Party Member in the banned organisation which she had joined in 2018. She was suspected to be involved in a dual murder case and two accounts of exchange of fire. She had a cash reward of Rs 2 lakh on her head.
Explaining the reasons for surrendering, the rebels said they were disillusioned with “hollow” Maoist ideology. The development of their hometowns after the opening of Gurupriya Bridge and the latest call by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and DGP Abhay influenced them to quit the path of violence. Lake was particularly disappointed with Maoist leaders’ behaviour towards women cadres because of persistent gender discrimination.
They will be provided assistance as per the Surrender and Rehabilitation policy of the state government, Malkangiri SP Rishikesh Dnyandeo Khilari.