Chhattisgarh: Maoist Surrenders Surge, Insurgency Weakens Amidst State Pressure

• 63 CPI-Maoist cadres, including 18 women, surrendered in Dantewada District on January 9, 2026, under the 'Poona Margem' initiative.
• Senior Maoist leaders like Paklu alias Pradip Oyam and Mohan Kadti alias Azad were among those who surrendered, carrying significant rewards.
• A total of 90 Maoist surrenders have been recorded in Chhattisgarh in early 2026, following 1,425 in 2025 and 332 in 2024.
• Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized a 'security, development, and trust' triad for a permanent solution to the Naxal problem.
• Despite successes, the Chhattisgarh Police Force faces significant shortfalls with 17,072 vacant posts, impacting its operational strength.

Why It Matters: Maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh is significantly weakened by surrenders and security operations, but vigilance remains crucial.