Maoist Strategist Bhupathi Lays Down Arms Amid Leadership Rift

Senior Naxalite leader Mallojula Venugopal, alias Bhupathi, and 60 cadres surrendered to police in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district. Once a key strategist, he faced internal conflict due to his call for peace. The district has seen a trend of Naxalite surrenders, including Bhupathi's wife.

In a significant development in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district, senior Naxalite leader Mallojula Venugopal, known as Bhupathi, and 60 cadres have surrendered to authorities. This took place late on Monday night, according to official sources.

Bhupathi, deemed a top strategist within the outlawed CPI (Maoist), cited internal conflicts and a failed armed struggle as reasons for his decision. Differences with leadership escalated recently, as Bhupathi called for peace, citing waning public support.

The Gadchiroli district has witnessed numerous surrenders by Naxalites, including Bhupathi's wife, Tarakka, signaling a possible shift in the movement's dynamics.

(With inputs from agencies.)