Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has announced that a group of Maoists is set to surrender before the state government following appeals to join the mainstream. Official sources indicate that six individuals are expected to surrender today before Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Parameshwara in Bengaluru.

The individuals likely to surrender include Mundagaru Latha, Sundari Kuthlur, Vanajakshi Balehole, and Mareppa Aroli from Karnataka; K Vasanth from Tamil Nadu; and Jeesha from Kerala, according to sources.

Responding to questions from reporters, Parameshwara confirmed the development but withheld specifics. “I can only say they are surrendering; I cannot share other details, such as their demands and what we have promised. I will share them later,” he stated.

BJP questions the surrender process
When asked about the BJP’s opposition to the government facilitating the surrender of Maoists with pending cases, including murder, Parameshwara defended the move. “The government had given a call for them to surrender after Maoist leader Vikram Gowda's encounter, asking them to join the mainstream. Accordingly, the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) and officials have worked,” he said.

Acknowledging the existence of cases against the Maoists, he added, “Yes, there are cases against them. We will see how the cases will proceed after their surrender and what is there in law.”

CM and Home Minister’s calls for surrender
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had earlier hinted at the likelihood of individuals involved in Naxal activities surrendering before state authorities. On Tuesday, Parameshwara reiterated that efforts were being made to encourage Maoists still active to surrender, aiming to achieve a “Naxal-free” Karnataka.

The Chief Minister recently urged Naxalites involved in violent activities to abandon their ways and join the democratic mainstream. He highlighted the government’s surrender policy for Maoists, which will be simplified and effectively implemented.

Context: Encounter with Vikram Gowda
The discussions surrounding the surrender gained momentum after Maoist leader Vikram Gowda was killed in an encounter with the ANF on November 18 at Peetabailu village in Hebri, Udupi district.

With PTI inputs