Patna/Munger: In a landmark development, Bihar has been officially declared free of Naxal activities following the surrender of the last armed Maoist, Suresh Koda, in Munger district. The announcement marks the culmination of decades-long efforts by the Central and State governments to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism from the state. The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Munger range, Rakesh Kumar, confirmed that no armed Naxalite squad is currently active in any of the 23 districts that were previously affected by insurgency. “With this surrender, there is no presence of any armed Naxalite squad in Bihar. This is a historic moment for the state,” he said.
The District Magistrate of Munger, Nikhil Dhanraj Nippanikar, stated that under the Central Government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy, Suresh Koda will soon receive the prescribed benefits aimed at reintegrating former extremists into mainstream society. The policy includes financial assistance, vocational training, and other support measures to ensure a smooth transition.
Suresh Koda’s wife, Pramila Devi, expressed happiness and relief over his decision. “There is now a sense of peace and joy in our family. We are grateful that he has chosen a new path,” she said.
Bihar’s tryst with Naxalism dates back to the 1970s, when the movement gained significant ground, particularly in central Bihar districts. By 2012, as many as 23 districts in the state were affected by Naxalite activities, posing serious challenges to law enforcement and development initiatives.
However, sustained counter-insurgency operations, improved intelligence networks, infrastructure development, and rehabilitation policies gradually weakened the insurgent network. According to official data, not a single Naxalite incident was reported in 2025 — a first in the state’s history.
In the same year, security forces arrested 220 Naxalites, marking a decisive breakthrough in restoring peace. Authorities described the achievement as a major step toward accelerating development, investment, and governance in previously affected regions.
Officials said the declaration of Bihar as Naxal-free opens a new chapter focused on inclusive growth and long-term stability, bringing closure to a turbulent chapter in the state’s history.
