HYDERABAD: The Maoist leadership appears to be reconsidering its armed struggle in view of sustained security operations, the deaths of key leaders in encounters and the absence of fresh recruitment.
Analysts said if reports of senior leaders surrendering are confirmed, the Maoist movement may be nearing its final phase. They cited a shortage of strategists, disruption of communication systems and dwindling funds as major factors weakening the organisation.
Key leaders die in encounters
Maoist party general secretary Nambala Keshava Rao was killed in a major encounter in May 2025. Central Committee member Madvi Hidma, described as a key strategist, was killed in November the same year. Another Central Committee member, Ganesh Uike, died in a separate encounter in December.
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Earlier, Malloju Venugopal Rao alias Bhupathi surrendered in October last year in the presence of the Maharashtra chief minister. Sujatha alias Kalpana surrendered on September 13, while Pulluri Prasada Rao alias Chandranna surrendered before Telangana police in October last year.
Reports have also emerged that senior Maoist leader Tippiri Tirupati alias Devloji and Central Committee member Malla Rajireddy alias Sangram have surrendered. Analysts said confirmation of these reports would mark a significant shift.
Telangana seen as safe zone
Director General of Police B. Shiva Dhar Reddy has repeatedly appealed to Maoists to give up arms. "Come out of hiding. We will ensure there is no harassment against you," he said.
Officials said Telangana is being viewed as a safe zone for surrender because of the state government's approach. In the past two years, 588 Maoist leaders and cadre from Telangana and Chhattisgarh have surrendered before Telangana police.
Sources indicated that the group led by Devloji may also have contacted Telangana authorities in a similar manner.
Maoists still underground
According to police records, the following Maoist leaders from Telangana remain underground:
Muppala Lakshmana Rao alias Ganapathi (Central Committee, Politburo member)
Tippiri Tirupati alias Devloji (current Maoist party chief; surrender reports unconfirmed)
Malla Rajireddy alias Sangram (Central Committee; surrender reports unconfirmed)
Pusnoori Narahari alias Santosh (Central Committee)
Muppidi Sambaiah alias Sudarshan (State Committee)
Vartha Shekhar alias Mangu (DKSZC member, communication wing in-charge)
Loketi Chandrarao alias Prabhakar (West Sub Zonal Bureau secretary)
Bade Chokkarao alias Damodar (Telangana State Committee member, military affairs in-charge)
Nakka Sushila alias Rela (DCM-level cadre)
Jadi Pushpa alias Rajeshwari (DCM-level cadre)
Rangaboyina Bhagya alias Rupi (Area Committee-level cadre)
Badsha Ung alias Mantu (Area Committee-level cadre)
Madivi Adume alias Sangeeta (Area Committee-level cadre)
Kashapogu Bhavani alias Suguna (Area Committee-level cadre)
Kunjam Idamal (Area Committee-level cadre)
Utimi Anil Kumar alias Bhagat Singh (party member, computer operator)