Tears of Reunion: After 12 Years with Naxals, Sunita Surrenders and Meets Parents After 3 Years in Balaghat

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Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh): A deeply emotional scene unfolded in Balaghat district when former Naxalite Sunita, who surrendered earlier this month, met her parents after nearly three years. Once forced into the Naxal movement under threat, Sunita — who spent 12 long years in the rebel ranks — broke down in tears as she embraced her mother and father, marking the beginning of a new life away from violence.

Forced Into the Naxal Fold

According to police, Sunita was abducted and forced to join the Naxal organization over a decade ago. Her parents revealed, through Sarpanch Channulal Puryam, that Naxals had threatened to abduct their other daughters if Sunita did not join the group. Terrified, the family had no choice but to remain silent.

After years of fear and struggle, Sunita finally surrendered to police on November 1. On Tuesday, Balaghat Police arranged a reunion with her parents, who were brought from Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. During the emotional meeting, both parents expressed gratitude to the police for bringing their daughter back safely and appealed that her rehabilitation be arranged in Bijapur so she could live close to her family.

Two Out of Four Return from the Forests

The village sarpanch revealed that four people from their area had joined the Naxal organization — of whom two, including Sunita, have now returned, while two others remain in the forests. Police are currently ensuring Sunita’s safety and working toward her full reintegration into mainstream society.

Support Under the Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy

Balaghat SP Aditya Mishra informed that under the state’s Naxal surrender policy, Sunita has been given an incentive of ₹50,000 and will be provided further support, including legal aid, identity documentation, education, and potential government employment opportunities.

Her father, Dasru Oyam, shared that Sunita never attended school and did not possess an Aadhaar card. Police are now facilitating the creation of her identity documents to help her rebuild her life under government programs.

“Naxal Ideology Is Hollow Now,” Says SP Mishra

Speaking on the larger context, SP Mishra remarked, “The words of Sunita’s parents show that the so-called Naxal ideology has lost its meaning. Armed struggle has no justification in today’s society. Those who wish to return to the mainstream are always welcome.”

He assured that the police are committed to ensuring Sunita’s safety, dignity, and rehabilitation, stating that she will be allowed to live and rebuild her life wherever she feels most comfortable.

The reunion of Sunita with her parents — marked by tears, relief, and hope — stands as a powerful symbol of how compassion and trust can defeat fear and extremism.