Chhattisgarh promotes Maoist-free panchayats in Bastar

The Chhattisgarh government has launched a new scheme aimed at encouraging Panchayats in the Bastar region to declare themselves Maoist-free. If a Panchayat makes this declaration, it can receive approvals for construction work worth Rs 1 crore. This initiative is part of the State Maoist Surrender/Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025. The policy includes several new provisions aimed at promoting the surrender of Maoist fighters. Under the new policy, if at least 80% of a Maoist group surrenders together, they will receive double the bounty set by the state government. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who also oversees the Home Department, explained the program. He mentioned that Panchayats in sensitive areas could propose themselves as "Maoist-free" if they find no active Maoists left in their regions. They can check local police station records to verify this information. Additionally, Panchayats that declare themselves Maoist-free will also be eligible for other benefits. These include mobile tower installations and improved electricity supply or solar lighting in their villages. The initiative is intended to promote development and encourage local communities to persuade Maoists to surrender for the benefit of their regions.