Chhattisgarh to review Maoist cases, clear way for accused in non-fatal offences

Chhattisgarh's deputy chief minister and home minister, Vijay Sharma, has ordered a legal review of cases involving individuals imprisoned for non-serious Maoist-related offenses that did not result in loss of life. This decision aims to pave the way for the release of eligible individuals after due legal scrutiny.

The directive was issued during a police meeting focused on relief, rehabilitation, and development in Maoist-affected areas. Sharma instructed officials to form a team of prosecutors and lawyers to examine the withdrawal of eligible Maoist-related cases in accordance with legal procedures. He emphasized that those involved in less severe Maoist cases should be considered for release upon completing the necessary legal process.

In a significant development push for areas emerging from Maoist influence, villages that officially declare themselves free of such influence will receive development works valued at ₹1 crore each. So far, 50 villages have been identified for this initiative, spread across Sukma, Bijapur, and Narayanpur districts.

Furthermore, Sharma directed officials to hoist the national flag in all Maoist-free villages on Independence Day to foster national unity and public participation. The government also committed to providing housing for all families affected by Maoist violence under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Community memorials will be constructed at sites of major Maoist attacks to honor security personnel and civilians who lost their lives. The government also pledged to ensure timely disbursement of benefits to families of martyrs and victims, as well as incentive amounts for rehabilitated youths.