Date:13/12/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/12/13/stories/2004121305260500.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Now `surrender melas'

By Our Special Correspondent

SRIKAKULAM, DEC. 12. Ever heard of `surrender melas?' In a trail-blazing effort, the district police have embarked on a programme of organising `surrender melas' in the district, evidently to woo and lure extremists of Maoist groups who might be having some difficulties in continuing their `clandestine life' in the forests.

"Why continue to live incognito, facing all sorts of hardship when the ban on the Maoists has been lifted. Come out and join the mainstream, we will extend all cooperation for your rehabilitation," an appeal by the Superintendent of Police, Y.Nagi Reddy, suggested to the Maoists.

Mr. Nagi Reddy further assured the Maoists that the police would take care of the health problems of surrendered extremists and ensure employment to their children through the Youth Employment Society (YES). "Treat the police as your well-wishers and surrender," Mr.Nagi Reddy said, adding that surrender of some may inspire others to follow suit.

The surrender melas would be organised first in Kasibugga on Monday, to be followed by another mela in Kotturu the next day. The forenoon is the time fixed for the surrender.

Kasibbugga and Kotturu are two mandals where the Maoists have a strong presence.

It remains to be seen what impact the appeal by the SP, made here on Sunday, would have on the Maoists.