Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday declared the state completely free from Naxalism, following the dramatic surrender of two high-ranking Maoists in Balaghat district. The declaration marks a significant milestone in the state’s long-standing battle against left-wing extremism.
The announcement was made during a video conference address from the state capital, as part of the ‘Rehabilitation to Rejuvenation’ campaign—a state initiative encouraging Naxalites to return to the mainstream. The event was organised in the wake of the surrender of two major Maoist operatives, Deepak and Rohit, at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Korka, under the Birsa police station area of Balaghat.
Both individuals carried substantial rewards on their heads. Deepak, a senior cadre, was carrying a bounty of ₹29 lakh, while Rohit had a reward of ₹14 lakh announced for his capture. Their voluntary surrender, as stated by police officials, was motivated by a desire to renounce violence and reintegrate into society.
Balaghat Superintendent of Police, Aditya Mishra, confirmed the operational impact of this development: “With their surrender, there are no more hardcore Naxals active in the district. This has been the result of sustained pressure from security forces, coupled with proactive confidence-building measures.”
Chief Minister Yadav framed this success as a direct outcome of national policy and leadership. “This became possible due to the unwavering determination to eliminate Naxalism from the country by 2026 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah,” Yadav stated.
In a poignant tribute to the security forces, the Chief Minister added, “Due to the indomitable courage and sacrifice of our police officers and personnel, the Lal Salaam from Balaghat has been given its final salute.” The phrase “Lal Salaam,” a traditional leftist revolutionary salute, symbolised the now-extinguished Naxal presence in the region.
The surrender is being seen as a major validation of the state’s dual strategy of relentless security operations paired with a persuasive rehabilitation policy. The ‘Rehabilitation to Rejuvenation’ campaign offers a structured path for former extremists, including livelihood training, financial assistance, and legal support to help them rebuild their lives.
Security analysts note that Balaghat, situated near the borders of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, was long considered a sensitive district within the state’s Naxal landscape. The elimination of active hardcore presence here signifies a critical weakening of the corridor once used by extremists.
While the declaration marks a historic moment for Madhya Pradesh, authorities caution that vigilance remains paramount. The focus will now intensify on consolidating peace through development, improving connectivity in former affected areas, and ensuring that surrendered individuals are successfully assimilated to prevent any backsliding.
The event in Balaghat is not just a local victory but is being projected as a template for other states still grappling with the challenge, inching the nation closer to its 2026 goal of a Naxal-free India.
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