Rumors are spreading across the Western Ghats that a group of six Naxals, possibly led by Vikram Gowda, are planning to surrender. Authorities, aware of the situation, suspect that the Naxals are camping near the forest border. Armed Police Force (ANF) personnel are closely monitoring the area.
The state government previously released a list of 22 Naxals, with some killed in encounters or having surrendered, leaving only 12. Reports indicate that only six to eight remain active, with fewer originating from Karnataka. Major operations by Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, along with internal conflicts and waning civilian support, are likely driving the possible surrender.
A state-level committee has been formed to facilitate the surrender and rehabilitation of Naxals, offering reintegration into society. Since 2010, 14 Naxals have surrendered under the government’s rehabilitation package, which includes a cash offer of up to ₹7.5 lakh.
ANF SP Jeethendar Kumar Dayama stated that efforts are ongoing to bring Naxals into the mainstream, while K P Sripal, a member of the state’s Naxal Surrender and Rehabilitation Committee, confirmed that legal recourse and facilities would be provided to those who surrender. However, cases registered against them will be handled separately.
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