Bastar offers hope of Fatherhood to surrendered Maoists
Doctors examine surrendered Maoists during a special medical camp in Jagdalpur
Jagdalpur | Correspondent: In a unique rehabilitation initiative, the Bastar administration has launched a special programme to help surrendered Maoists who were allegedly sterilised during their time in the insurgency regain the possibility of becoming fathers.
A special medical camp was organised at Maharani Hospital in Jagdalpur by the district administration, police and health departments. As part of the first phase, 28 surrendered Maoists underwent medical examinations, and the treatment process has begun.
According to hospital authorities, sterilization reversal (recanalization) surgery, which can cost between ₹1 lakh and ₹1.5 lakh in private hospitals, is being provided free of cost under the programme.
Dr Sanjay Prasad, Chief Superintendent of Maharani Hospital, said all participants in the first phase have been screened and further treatment will proceed based on their medical condition. More surrendered Maoists interested in the procedure will be included in future camps.
A team of urologists from AIIMS Raipur and the Urological Society (Western Zone) conducted detailed health assessments during the camp. Doctors will determine eligibility for surgery after reviewing the medical reports.
Officials said many male recruits in Maoist ranks were allegedly subjected to sterilization because the organisation viewed family responsibilities as a hindrance to its activities. After surrendering and returning to normal life, several of these men later married but were unable to have children.
The administration said the initiative aims to ensure that rehabilitation extends beyond financial assistance and employment opportunities to include the opportunity to lead a full family life.
Bastar Division Commissioner Doman Singh, IG Sundarraj P., Collector Akash Chikara and SP Shalabh Sinha visited the camp and encouraged participants to take advantage of government rehabilitation schemes and continue their integration into mainstream society.
