Guns to Governance: 120 former Maoists visit Chhattisgarh Assembly

In a historic first, 120 former Maoists , including surrendered Central Committee member Rupesh alias Satish , visited the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Friday to observe the workings of the state legislature.

The group comprised five former Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee members , seven ex-Divisional Committee members , 33 former Area Committee members , and 84 ex-party cadres of the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist), including 54 women .

During their visit, they met Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai , Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma , and other ministers. Sai welcomed the former rebels with a traditional “Jai Johar” and assured them of the government’s commitment to their safety, dignity, and rehabilitation. He emphasized that providing rehabilitated individuals with opportunities to earn a respectful livelihood is a top priority. “Those who once walked the path of violence are now standing in the temple of the Constitution, witnessing the democratic process,” he said.

Deputy Chief Minister Sharma praised the youth for abandoning the path of violence and returning to the mainstream. “The path of the Constitution leads to development, peace, and prosperity. The government is working continuously to provide dignified lives, employment, and skill development for rehabilitated youth,” he stated, expressing confidence that they would serve as agents of positive change in society.

Sharma highlighted that the people of Bastar had long awaited transformation, which is now taking shape under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi , Union Home Minister Amit Shah , and the leadership of Chief Minister Sai.

The Chair of the Assembly described the occasion as rare and historic, congratulating the former Maoists for rejoining the democratic mainstream.

When asked about entering politics, Rupesh said it was not necessary for everyone who believes in democracy to contest elections. “We will stay among the people and work with them,” he said, adding that he was familiar with Assembly proceedings and preferred not to comment hastily.

Sukhmati Dhruv alias Ranita, a former DKSZC member who joined the Maoist movement in 1998, described her visit to Raipur and the Assembly as an inspiring experience.

On Thursday night, Deputy Chief Minister Sharma hosted a dinner for the rehabilitated group at his residence in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar , welcoming them back into mainstream society.