Koraput district in Odisha has been officially declared Naxal-free following the surrender of a senior woman cadre of the banned CPI (Maoist) organization. The surrender marks a significant milestone in Odisha’s efforts to eliminate left-wing extremism from the region.
The surrendered Maoist, Mamata Podiami (also known as Mamita and Soni), hails from Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh and held the rank of Area Committee Member (ACM). She had been involved in multiple incidents along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border, including armed clashes and anti-government activities.
The surrender ceremony took place in Jeypore, Koraput, in the presence of senior officials from the Odisha Police and the Border Security Force (BSF). Mamata handed over one SLR rifle and 10 rounds of ammunition, formally ending her association with militant activities.
DIG Kanwar Vishal Singh, South Western Range, highlighted the significance of the development: “Following the recent declaration of Malkangiri as Naxal-free, today Koraput also joins the list of districts free from left-wing extremism.”
Under Odisha’s rehabilitation program for surrendered extremists, Mamata is eligible for financial support, including ₹5.5 lakh for rehabilitation and ₹1.65 lakh for surrendering her weapon, along with other assistance to facilitate her reintegration into society.
This surrender follows similar developments in Malkangiri, where two Maoist cadres from Sukma district in Chhattisgarh recently laid down their arms, leading to that district being declared Naxal-free.
The Odisha government, along with security forces, views these surrenders as a step toward lasting peace, enhanced local development, and improved safety in areas historically affected by extremist violence. The government’s strategy combines strict law enforcement with rehabilitation incentives, encouraging militants to leave armed activities and reintegrate into civilian life.
With Koraput now free from Naxal influence, Odisha moves closer to the goal of becoming completely free from left-wing extremism, reflecting successful policing, community engagement, and rehabilitation initiatives.