In a remarkable tale of transformation, Sanjay Potam, formerly a Naxalite commander known as Badru, has been awarded the prestigious President’s Medal for Gallantry for the third time. This honor is a testament to his exceptional bravery and dedication to public service after turning his life around.
Badru, who surrendered in 2013, transitioned from a life of insurgency to become a dedicated policeman. Over the years, he has risen through the ranks to become a 3-star officer, showcasing his commitment to serving the nation. His journey from a Naxalite commander to a law enforcement officer has made him a symbol of hope and redemption.
In an interview with ANI, Potam expressed his deep gratitude for the recognition. “I am grateful that I received this award. I got the responsibility of the Sukma-Dantewada border when I was involved in Naxalism,” he said. Potam also took the opportunity to encourage other Naxalites to abandon their violent ideology, urging them to surrender and lead a normal life. “There is no future in following their ideology,” he added.
Potam recounted his past experiences, explaining that he was a member of the District Election Committee (DEC) when he left Naxalism. “The people there do not get any benefits. They are just promoted based on the responsibilities they can handle,” Potam explained. He admitted that his involvement in Naxalism stemmed from a lack of awareness about the outside world, particularly due to his roots in Bastar, a region heavily affected by insurgency. “I want to tell everyone that Naxalites misguide people. They provoke people to choose the path of violence, which is not right,” he stated, appealing to fellow insurgents to surrender.
Potam’s personal story of transformation extends beyond his own life. His wife, who was also involved in Naxalism, now works as a peon in a government office. Reflecting on their journey, Potam expressed his gratitude for the change in their lives. “I have visited some states and cities, and whenever I see it, I feel our Bastar is so underdeveloped,” he remarked, underscoring the need for development in the region.
Bastar, located in the southern part of Chhattisgarh, has been a hotspot of Naxal activity for decades. Rich in natural resources such as iron ore, coal, and timber, the region has been exploited by Naxalites to fuel their insurgency, capitalizing on the local tribal population’s grievances with the government and corporations. The area has witnessed numerous violent clashes, leading to significant loss of life and displacement.
(With ANI inputs)
