Ending suspense over her whereabouts since top Maoist leader Kishenji was killed in November, his close aide Suchitra Mahato surrendered before chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday. Suchitra, involved in at least 16 serious cases, was believed to be with Kishenji when he was killed in Burisole jungle on November 24 in an encounter described as “unintentional” by Banerjee.

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“This is a big achievement for both the government and my brothers and sisters (Maoists),” said Banerjee, flanked by Suchitra and her new husband Prabir Garai. She re-married on February 25.

Banerjee said she has promised both Suchitra and Prabir all help to bring them back to the mainstream. “At the time of encounter Suchitra got injured in her waist. We will treat her,” Banerjee said describing the surrender as a Holi gift.

On Kishenji’s killing, Banerjee said, “It is not that we were instrumental in the killing of Kishenji. It happened in the course of events. This happens at times. Any death is unfortunate... The government does not celebrate killings.”