The Maoist movement in Telangana has suffered a severe blow, with 16 senior leaders, including key Central Committee members, surrendering to police. This comes after a period of relative dormancy in the forests and is being hailed as the biggest success of a strategic Telangana Police operation.
The most notable surrender is that of Devji, also known as Tippiri Tirupati, who had taken charge of the party following the encounter of Nambala Keshavaraju (Basavaraj). Serving as the central Maoist party Secretary, Devji’s surrender is seen by analysts as a fracture in the party’s backbone. Another senior leader, Malla Rajireddy from Peddapalli district, also surrendered, along with 14 other key members at various levels, many of whom had previously carried government bounties.
Operations in Karreguttala and Ongoing Search
Security forces have been intensively operating in the Karreguttala area over the past week. Reports indicate that police pressure and health concerns prompted the surrenders. However, searches continue for another senior leader, Bade Chokkarao, alias Damodar, with authorities actively tracking his movements. Details of the surrenders have not yet been officially released, though officials are expected to present the leaders to the media in the coming days while investigating remaining party links.
This development signals a near-eradication of Maoist influence in northern Telangana. With decades-long leaders leaving the forests, the party’s remaining cadre faces uncertainty, marking a significant weakening of the organization in the region.