West Bengal announces surrender policy for Maoists

KOLKATA - The West Bengal government Wednesday announced a surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy for the Maoist guerrillas with immediate effect.

As per the package, based on guidelines formulated by the union home ministry, surrendering Maoists would get a monthly stipend of Rs.2,000 for a period of three years, while the state government would make a fixed deposit of Rs.1.5 lakh for three years for each.

Once the fixed deposit matures, the entire money would be handed over to the rebel if he shows good conduct for three years.

“We are also prepared to give them loans for doing business before the fixed deposit matures. The fixed deposit amount would be the security,” said Director General of Police Bhupinder Singh.

Officers of the level of additional director general of police (ADGP) and inspector general would monitor the package, while the Left-wing extremists could surrender before a district magistrate, police superintendent or other senior officials.

The state government would also provide compensation amount to Maoists for surrendering weapons.

“If they surrender a machine gun they get Rs.25,000. For an AK-47, they get Rs.15,000. Rs.3,000 will be given for surrendering a revolver or a landmine. For every kilogram of explosive we will will pay Rs.1,000,” the police chief said.

And if they deposit a satellite phone, Rs.10,000 will be provided, he added.

If Maoist sympathizers give themselves up, their cases will be considered if they are accused in a small crime. If rebels now in police custody on minor charges wish to return to the mainstream, they will be considered for bail.

“We will keep them under watch and if they continue with their good behaviour we will ensure they are properly rehabilitated,” Singh said.