From Rebel to Mother: Former Maoist Sammi Embraces a Fresh Start in Gadchiroli

Nagpur: As soon as 25-year-old Sammi held her newborn son in her hands for the first time at the women's hospital in Gadchiroli district, tears of joy flowed from her eyes. Sammi, once known as “Comrade Bandi” in the dangerous areas of the Maoist organization, is making a new beginning today. After carrying a gun in the jungles for so many years, this first feeling of motherhood brought light to her after a long darkness.

What is the background of Sammi and Arjun?

Sammi's husband, Arjun, had previously been the bodyguard of the PLGA commander and was very active within the organization. Both of them left the forest and surrendered to the police on January 1. Maoist parties often imposed strict rules on couples—no permission to form families, forced sterilization operations, and frequent relocation. It was almost impossible for life to be normal in such an environment. But things changed after the surrender. Sammi became pregnant in February, and this moment became the turning point in her life.

What changed after coming out of Maoist life?

After surrendering, both of them got full help under the government's 'Project Sanjeevani' scheme. Gadchiroli Police ensured his rehabilitation. They were given an Aadhar card, a bank account, a driving license, and financial assistance of Rs 16.3 lakh so that they could start a respectable life. Gadchiroli SP Nilotpal reached the hospital and blessed the newborn baby and said, “This child proves that peace wins in the end.”

What does Sammi think about the future now?

Speaking to the doctor at the hospital, Sammi said, "For the first time I feel that I too can have a normal life—family, children, home. Now my dream is that my son grows up in an environment where there is no sound of guns." Arjun also said that he wants to send his son to a good school and live an honest life by working hard.

How big is the impact of surrender in Gadchiroli?

Gadchiroli district is at a record-breaking level in the number of surrenders this year. This year alone, 101 Maoists laid down arms, and the total number reached 783. Many of them are now running shops, driving autos, or doing daily wage labor. Sammi and Arjun's story is the most human picture of this sea change—where a desire to give up guns and become a family broke the cycle of violence.