Maoist Rebels Surrender in Droves as Insurgency Crumbles in Abujhmad

In a significant development, the dense forests of Abujhmad, once considered an impenetrable Maoist fortress, are now witnessing a steady wave of surrenders as the rebels begin to abandon their decades-long insurgency. According to a recent report, surrendered Maoists have shared startling accounts of life inside the movement, revealing the growing realization that the fight is over.

Among those who have laid down arms is Sukhlal Jhurry, a Maoist doctor with a Rs 8 lakh bounty on his head. Jhurry, who treated injured cadres for years, even admitted to carrying out sterilization procedures on Maoists to prevent them from having families. "We are living a peaceful life now. Those who remain in the forest should join the mainstream. Nobody wants to die, everyone wants to live at least a few days," he said.

Another surrendered cadre, Arun Kumra, served as the bodyguard of the feared Maoist leader Hidma, one of the most wanted in India. Kumra, who joined the organization at 16, said the police pressure has become too high, and they feared being killed at any time. "Life in the jungle was very hard, now we are happy after surrender. Hidma and Sangram should surrender too, otherwise they will be killed," he added.

Security officials say this wave of surrenders reflects a turning point in the government's Mission 2026, the deadline to wipe out Maoist influence from central India. Since 2024, over 450 Maoists, including senior commanders, have surrendered, and more than 550 weapons have been recovered. Authorities are now conducting large-scale operations in Abujhmad and adjoining districts, targeting the remaining leadership.