Raipur: In the battle to eradicate Naxalism from the country, police and security forces bank on inside information to track movements and plans of Maoists.
The risk of passing on information at times lands informers in trouble, and some even have to pay with their lives.
Recognising the risks they take and to safeguard their interests, the BJP-helmed government in Chhattisgarh – the worst-affected state in terms of Maoist insurgency – is set to introduce a comprehensive surrender and rehabilitation policy.
There will be enhanced support for victims, informers and extremists who have surrendered.
The compensation amount for families of police informers killed in Maoist attacks will be doubled from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
“Families of police secret troopers killed in Maoist attacks will receive Rs 10 lakh, double the previous amount. Individuals left permanently disabled will be eligible for assistance ranging from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh,” an IAS officer of Chhattisgarh government said.
In cases of murder or severe injury, families will receive land in rural or urban areas. If land is unavailable, financial grants of Rs 4 lakh in rural areas and Rs 8 lakh in urban areas will be provided by the state government,” said the official involved in the policy formation.
Victims’ families which fail to get government jobs will receive a lumpsum compensation of Rs 15 lakh.
Victims from other states who have suffered due to Maoist activities in Chhattisgarh can also claim support under this programme.
Further, children from victims’ families will receive scholarships, hostel accommodation and reserved seats in private schools under the Right to Education (RTE) Act. For higher education, concerned students will be provided Rs 25,000 per year for technical and vocational courses.
“By focusing on financial assistance, education, employment, and reintegration, the policy tries to overpower the appeal of the Maoist movement and address the socio-economic disparities that fuel the insurgency,” the official explained.
The policy is expected to be notified and launched soon.
