Women Naxalites who once moved through the forests of Bastar with weapons such as INSAS rifles have now taken to the ramp, styled in heirloom sarees, and promoting Swadeshi products after surrendering.
Nine women from Sukma who recently surrendered participated in a fashion show held as part of a National Handloom Day event in Raipur. The programme was part of efforts to rehabilitate former Naxalites and provide them opportunities to engage in activities outside their previous lives. “I used to work in the Pamed Area Committee. We went to Raipur recently. There, we were trained by people who had come from Bombay…prominent ministers also came.
I surrendered in 2026. Another surrendered Naxalite, Poonam Devi, said she surrendered on July 12, 2025, after joining the Naxalite movement in November 2007. “I surrendered on July 12, 2025. I liked the program…we were trained for it…I joined the Naxals in November 2007 and left in 2025,” she said.
The women also helped spread awareness about Swadeshi products during the event, according to Sukma SP Mayank Gurjar. One of the surrendered Naxalites, who said she had worked with the Pamed Area Committee, recalled her experience in Raipur, where the participants underwent six days of training. The training was of six days…it was the first time we did something like that…we enjoyed it,” the former Naxalite said.
Surrendered Naxalites Showcase Transformation at Fashion Show
The participation of surrendered Naxalites in a recent fashion show highlights a significant shift in their perspectives and increased confidence in the government’s rehabilitation efforts. SP Mayank Gurjar emphasized that this event is part of the benefits offered to these individuals under the rehabilitation policies of both the Government of India and the Chhattisgarh Government. Gurjar noted that their involvement in such public events reflects a growing trust in the rehabilitation initiatives designed to support their reintegration into society.
