Six months after laying down arms and renouncing violence, a former Maoist divisional committee member, Nagsu Wadde, has embarked on a new chapter in life by marrying a fellow surrendered Naxal in Maharashtra's Gondia district. The marriage sends a strong message about the safe, respectable, and happy mainstream life awaiting former outlaws, according to Gondia Police.
Background of the Couple
Wadde, originally from Tirlagarh in Kanker district of Chhattisgarh, was known as 'Golu' in the Dareksa Dalam. He, along with 10 others, surrendered under the Maharashtra government's surrender and rehabilitation policy in November 2025. His bride, Shevanti Raising Pandhare (36), a resident of Balaghat district in Madhya Pradesh, served as an Area Committee Member (ACM) in the same Dalam.
The Wedding Ceremony
The marriage was organized by Superintendent of Police Gorakh Bhamre under the guidance of Superintendent of Police in-charge Abhay Dongre. Family members of the bride and groom, relatives, local citizens, and police officers attended the ceremony. The 11 Naxalites, including Pandhare, are currently staying in the police colony at the local police headquarters in Karanja.
Symbolism of the Union
Police stated that the marriage symbolizes not just the union of two individuals, but the triumph of peace over violence, faith over fear, and hope over despair. The couple's desire to live a respectable life, start a family, and build a peaceful future was the driving force behind their decision to wed. A police official noted, "This will serve as an inspiring example of rehabilitation, acceptance, and the beginning of a new life."
Rehabilitation Success
Wadde had traversed the forests along the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border as a former Maoist. His surrender and subsequent marriage highlight the effectiveness of the government's rehabilitation policy. The Gondia Police emphasized that such events encourage other Naxals to come forward and join the mainstream.
