Will Top Maoist Devji Surrender to Telangana Police?
Hyderabad: With the Centre’s March 31 deadline to eliminate Maoists nearing, signs have emerged that the top leadership of the banned outfit may be exploring surrender.
Sources indicate that adverse ground conditions for guerrilla warfare have forced a rethink at the highest level. Telangana is being considered as a possible venue for a safe surrender.
The party’s supreme commander is learnt to be Tippiri Tirupati alias Devji, as earlier announced by former central committee member Chandranna. However, former politburo member Mallojula Venugopal had said the party had not confirmed Devji’s elevation. Despite the debate over his formal designation, Devji is widely seen as the top leader at present.
Operation Karreguttalu-2 intensifies pressure
Security forces launched “Operation Karreguttalu-2” on February 18 amid intensified crackdown in Maoist-affected areas. The operation is underway along the Telangana–Chhattisgarh border.
Devji, also known as Chetan, and Kesa Sodilu, who oversees responsibilities of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army, are reportedly among those being tracked.
Senior leader Sangram returns to native state
Another central committee member, Malla Rajireddy alias Sangram, is also learnt to have returned to his home state to explore surrender options.
Sources say Devji has initiated contact with influential figures in Telangana to facilitate discussions on a possible safe surrender.
