RAIPUR: Victims of Naxalite violence and surrendered Maoists , who can't see eye to eye, may now come face to face, or even team up, in the ' Bastar Olympics ' - a one-of-its kind village games meant to bridge gaps and build hope in the Maoist-affected region. Chhattisgarh govt is organising the games from Nov 1. This unique initiative is meant to encourage youngsters, inculcate sporting spirit, and help mainstream ex-Maoists.
Deputy CM Vijay Sharma, who heads the home department, told TOI the event is focused on children and youth, mainly those victimised by insurgency. "This will boost their confidence and spirit for looking forward in life. Those who perform well .
..will be felicitated and govt will help them explore their field of interest," he said.
Officials hope 'Olympics' inject 'feel-good' factor in Maoist zone The games come at a time when intense security ops have pushed Maoists on the backfoot and govt sees a clear path for development. Dozens of schools closed for two decades are reopening in erstwhile Maoist dens. Officials hope the Olympics will inject a feel-good factor in what's been a battleground for over two decades.
An official explained to TOI that engaging Bastar youth in studies and sports will keep them away from Maoist attempts to recruit them. In a rare admission recently, CPI(Maoist) had issued a booklet where it acknowledged the difficulties in recruiting cadres due to the sustained security operations. Bastar Olympics will coincide with the gener.