On August 7, nine former women Maoists from Chhattisgarh took to the ramp at a state-level weavers’ conference in Raipur, showcasing traditional handloom and Kosa silk dresses. The women, who had once been part of the Maoist movement in the dense forests of Bastar, beamed with smiles as they walked the ramp. Eight of the women were from Sukma, while one was from Bijapur. For 22-year-old Punem Jyoti, a resident of Elmagunda village in Sukma’s Chintagufa area, this was an unimaginable experience. Jyoti, who surrendered in Hyderabad in December last year, said her life has changed significantly since leaving the Maoist movement. Another former Naxalite, 28, who wished to remain anonymous, said she had never seen a fashion show during her time in the forests. The women received seven days of training from professional experts from Mumbai in ramp walking, grooming, and speaking confidently on the microphone. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with the women at the event, which was part of the state government’s rehabilitation efforts. The government has been providing skill development opportunities to surrendered cadres, aiming to help them secure dignified livelihoods and become economically self-reliant. The nine women, who surrendered over the last one-and-a-half years, are currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Punarwas Kendra in Sukma.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Siasat Gulf