Dev Ji surrender talks stall over conditions
HYDERABAD: Talks over the surrender of Maoist Central Committee secretary Dev Ji, a native of Jagtial district, have reportedly slowed after a set of conditions surfaced, sources said. The delay has triggered speculation that negotiations are under way with the Union home ministry.
According to sources, intermediaries are holding discussions as the Centre pushes to complete Operation Kagar, aimed at making the country Maoist-free by March next year.
Central Committee weakened after sustained operations
Security forces have killed about 1,800 Maoists in recent months during combing operations and encounters, including senior leader Hidma. Many others have surrendered due to age, illness and other reasons, significantly weakening the Maoist Central Committee.
Dev Ji took charge as Central Committee secretary about six months ago. Security officials believe that either his surrender or death in an encounter would effectively mark the end of Operation Kagar.
Rumours intensified last month after police arrested Dev Ji’s bodyguards, with speculation that he was already in custody. However, uncertainty continues over his surrender.
Tribal rights among key demands in talks
Sources said talks have focused on issues related to Adivasi rights in forest areas across Bijapur, Sukma and Narayanpur districts in Chhattisgarh, East and West Singhbhum in Jharkhand, Gadchiroli in Maharashtra and Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh.
Demands reportedly include protection of tribal culture and traditions, withdrawal of central forces’ camps to ensure peaceful living, and clarity on the future of jailed Maoists who participated in the movement.
With no response yet from the Centre on these conditions, the delay in Dev Ji’s surrender is being attributed to the pending decision. There is also speculation that if the demands are met, Dev Ji could surrender before Union home minister Amit Shah.
