KORAPUT: In a further blow to the Maoist-backed Chasi Mulia Adivasi Sangh (CMAS) of Narayanpatna, 101 tribals have deserted the outfit.
They approached the administration on Tuesday with a desire to join the mainstream. As many as 300 tribals have abandoned the CMAS between January 11 and February 8. In the latest incident, at least 17, 26 and 68 villagers of Mankidi, Jokopani and Tolo Renga respectively trekked down to Narayanpatna police station.
"They are keen on joining the mainstream and availing government benefits," SDPO (Laxmipur) Y Jagannath Rao.
The SDPO said steps would be initiated for development of these villages and the inhabitants to lead a normal life without fear of Maoists.
Sources said with villagers dissociating themselves from the CMAS, the clout of Maoists in the area was waning. Maoists often used CMAS as a shield to carry out offensives in the past.