Rebels offered cash to surrender

Apart from Rs500,000 and a house, special allocation to be paid to those who get married

The Kerala government yesterday announced a package deal, including a house and lump sum payment of up to Rs500,000 (Dh27,302), for all Maoist rebels who are willing to surrender and reintegrate themselves into society.

This decision was taken at the weekly cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s office said.

‘For those trapped’

Authorities said the main reason for announcing the package was to help those who fell into the trap of the Maoists and joined them.

“But the rehabilitation package will have all the necessary safeguards to ensure that there will be strict monitoring as no one will be allowed to get away after getting all the benefits,” officials said.

The package has been formulated, based on the status of the surrendering Maoists, who have been divided into three categories of A, B and C.

Category A are those who hold high ranks in the hierarchy and will be given Rs500,000 each, while those in the other two categories would be given Rs300,000 — in instalments.

Apart from the instalment payments, a special allocation of Rs25,000 will be paid to those who get married, as well as Rs15,000 for those who wish to study and Rs10,000 for vocational training.