The last two Naxalites in Karnataka surrendered two days ago. One was Naxal Kothehunda Ravindra, aged 44, from Kiga village in Sringeri, and the other was Thombutu Lakshmi alias Lakshmi Poojaarthi, 41, from Kundapura. One surrendered in Chikmagalur, while the other surrendered in Udupi district. Henceforth, the Siddaramaiah government of the state proclaimed that Karnataka has become a Naxal-free state.
What triggered the fear of surrender in Naxalites?
Vikram Gowda, the Naxal leader of Karnataka, was killed by the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF), thereby creating an impression for the Naxalites to think of surrender, as he was one of the primary faces for promoting Naxalism in the State.
The police made a major success in making Karnataka free from Naxalism in February 2024 after, Maoist leader, Angadi Suresh(49) alias Pradeep was made to surrender.
What work in government’s favour that led to the surrender of Naxals?
The government promised the Naxalites a relief package amounting to Rupees 7.5 lakh in three installments in exchange for their surrender. One condition was put forward to the Naxalites that they could be imprisoned for something they were charged with. The assistance granted by the state government entails a request for legal help on behalf of the surrendered Naxalites. Under the scheme, the surrendered Naxalites were also promised a year’s skill development training and a monthly assistance of 5,000 rupees. Further, on undertaking formal education, this assistance would continue for another two years.
