Kanker Maoists face Aadhaar hurdle after surrender
HYDERABAD: Surrendered Maoists are facing delays in receiving rehabilitation benefits due to the absence of Aadhaar cards, raising concerns over implementation gaps in the policy.
In January 2025, Pasula Vasantha from Korutla, who had spent nearly 25 years underground, surrendered near Kanker district in Chhattisgarh. She is yet to receive rehabilitation assistance as she does not possess an Aadhaar card.
Large number of surrendered Maoists lack Aadhaar identification
In October 2025, about 197 Maoists surrendered in Chhattisgarh and 61 in Maharashtra. Except for 140 recently recruited members, most do not have Aadhaar cards.
In February 2026, around 180 Maoists, including Politburo member Tippiri Tirupati, Malla Rajireddy and Bade Chokkarao from Korutla, surrendered before Telangana Police. More than half of them lack any identity documents.
New Aadhaar enrolment process causes delays in benefits
Many surrendered Maoists now face difficulties in obtaining new Aadhaar cards. As a result, rehabilitation assistance is getting delayed.
Since many of them lived underground for years, they do not possess basic identity documents. Several lack educational records, making it difficult to establish date of birth during Aadhaar enrolment.
Revenue authorities face challenges in issuing residence certificates due to lack of witnesses for panchanama verification. The process of obtaining Aadhaar can take one to two months.
Applicants must secure a residence certificate from revenue officials based on their current address, including rented accommodation. They also need to attach a surrender certificate issued by senior police officials and apply online.
However, technical issues delay Aadhaar generation even after submission. In many cases, applicants must reapply with complete documents before receiving the card from the Unique Identification Authority of India.
Concerns over further delays in rehabilitation and rewards
While senior Maoist leaders receive quicker assistance due to administrative support, ordinary cadres continue to face hurdles.
Officials indicate that delays in Aadhaar issuance may slow down disbursement of rewards and rehabilitation packages. There are calls for special measures to resolve the issue and expedite support to surrendered Maoists.
