“Come Back Home, Brother…”: Chhattisgarh Uses Radio Appeals to Reach Maoists in Bastar Jungles

Raipur: In a unique and emotionally driven initiative aimed at bringing Maoists back into the mainstream, the Chhattisgarh government has launched a campaign through All India Radio (Akashvani), broadcasting heartfelt messages recorded by family members of Maoist cadres.

Since mobile networks remain unreliable in the dense forests of Bastar, the government has turned to radio waves—one of the most accessible sources of communication in remote tribal regions—to deliver voices of hope, love, and reunion.

Emotional Messages Broadcast in Maoist Strongholds

One such message comes from Anil Kurmi of Sukma, appealing to his sister, who joined the Maoist movement during her teenage years and now reportedly uses the alias “Kranti”.

In his message, Anil says:
“Dear sister, you left home when you were young and joined the party. I have not seen you since. I request you to lay down your weapons and return home. We are all worried about you.”

This is among dozens of similar emotional appeals being aired across Left-Wing Extremism-affected states.

Radio Waves Reaching Where Mobile Signals Fail

Officials said that where mobile towers cannot reach, radio signals can still travel deep into forest areas. Rather than airing only official announcements, Akashvani is now broadcasting family voices—often in the Gondi language—speaking about life beyond the jungle, government rehabilitation benefits, and the possibility of a safer future.

Another recorded message says:
“Many have returned to the mainstream. The government is providing rehabilitation support. You should also come back. Life at home will be better.”

Campaign Linked to Centre’s Deadline to End LWE

Authorities noted that the campaign has gained momentum as the Central Government’s deadline of March 31 to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) draws closer.

Chhattisgarh officials believe such emotional outreach may weaken the ideological grip of insurgent groups and encourage surrender through personal connection rather than force.

Broadcast Across Multiple States and Stations

The campaign is being broadcast from radio stations across several states, including:

• Chhattisgarh (Jagdalpur, Saraipali, Raipur)
• Telangana (Kothagudem)
• Andhra Pradesh (Visakhapatnam)
• Maharashtra (Chandrapur, Gadchiroli)
• Odisha (Bhawanipatna, Bolangir)
• Madhya Pradesh (Balaghat, Mandla)

These broadcasts cover several Maoist-affected regions where radio remains a vital source of information.

Fixed Broadcast Timings to Maximize Reach

Officials confirmed that the broadcasts began on February 5 and will continue till February 25. Messages are aired twice daily:

• 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
• 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM

The chosen timings are strategic, as Maoist cadres are more likely to be resting, regrouping, or taking breaks during these hours, increasing the chances of them tuning in.

A Campaign Built on Emotion, Not Fear

With this initiative, the Chhattisgarh government is attempting to melt hardened hearts shaped by years of violence by using the most powerful weapon of all—the voice of family.

Officials believe that when a mother, sister, brother, or nephew calls out on the radio, even those trained to respond only to the language of guns may begin to reconsider their path.