In a positive turn of events for the security forces in the Maoist-prone Malkangiri district, as many as 907 sympathisers, including 467 active militias, surrendered before the police and the Border Security Forces, officials said on Wednesday.
Those who surrendered are from Andrapali, Gajalmamudi, Jantri, Nakamamudi,Jodambo and Panasput Gram Panchayats of Malkangiri District and Bungaput and Kumuda Gram Panchayats of Alluri Sitharam Raju district of Andhra Pradesh.
All these villages are located in the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border, the erstwhile stronghold of Maoists.
These Maoist supporters used to assist the militants in their violent activities and were involved in killing of security forces, civilians. They were also supplying logistics to them, they said.
Developmental initiatives of the State Government coupled with the strategic deployment of Security Forces inspired the villagers to join the mainstream. Series of developmental works like construction of new roads, bridges, Medical facilities, installation of mobile towers, project to supply drinking water, electricity to all the houses of the area motivated them to join the mainstream and partake in the development process, the Malkangiri police said in a statement.