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15 Maoists surrender after commander Hidma's death
India
Fifteen Maoists, including several from the notorious Battalion No 1, surrendered to Sukma police just days after their commander Madvi Hidma was killed in an encounter.
The group—10 men and 5 women with a combined ₹48 lakh bounty—was influenced by police officials who said that recent development projects like better roads and schools in Bastar are encouraging Maoists to reconsider their involvement in the movement.
More surrenders encouraged as region changes
Police are now urging other Maoists to give up arms too, promising safety and support for those who do.
Officials say these changes show that new opportunities and improved infrastructure are helping people move beyond years of conflict in the area.