Ramlal, a resident of Bandipara Parcheli, was only seventeen when he joined the Maoists. Today, a twenty-two-year-old, he recalls the brutalities of the work and hardships of daily life.

Ramlal worked as the Deputy Commander of the Platoon Section of DVC Security Force (DVC Suraksha Dalam). To protect himself, he used the alias Mamu. As Deputy Commander, he worked in
the security services to protect Maoist party leaders. He looked over a team of 6. They travelled from village to village as the party leaders’ security force. Aside from the dangers that came with the job, Ramlal struggled with the lack of basic amenities such as housing and food. He says the Maoists troubled him greatly. He was forced to work in dire conditions – be it extreme heat or heavy rain, Ramlal was expected to stay alert and continue working. This nomadic lifestyle did not suit him.

He met his wife in Mangir, back in the July of 2019. She also worked with the Maoists but Vetti was hesitant to reveal what she did. They are now newly-weds – and had their wedding on Valentine’s
Day this year too. The significance of the day, however, is lost on them. Their life has always had more pressing issues that concerned them.

When he was with Maoists, a bounty of 3 lakh rupees was placed on his head by the police. Tired of the lifestyle and constant fear for his life, Ramlal decided to surrender. His wife surrendered on
November 18 last year, followed by his surrender 5 days later. They had to leave their old village and have joined the District Reserve Guard (DRG) at Dantewada. When asked if he earns enough for a
livelihood, he meekly says ‘yes’. He earns Rs. 12,000 per month while working with the DRG, which he says will be increased with time. Ramlal plans on taking up farming like his parents and the rest of
his family. When asked about his life he says it is significantly better today, but seemingly, the ghosts of his past still follow.

Reported by Anna Abraham