Maoist Leaders Surrender: A New Chapter in Telangana

Top Maoist commander Thippiri Tirupati, also known as Devuji, surrendered to the Telangana police after over four decades underground. Devuji, along with other Maoist leaders, returned to the mainstream, citing health issues and ideological divergence within the party. The event marks a significant shift for Telangana's security landscape.

In a strategic turn of events, top Maoist commander Thippiri Tirupati, better known as Devuji, surrendered to Telangana police on Tuesday, effectively ending over 40 years of underground activity. His surrender was part of a larger trend, as fellow Maoist leaders also chose to return to the mainstream.

The surrenders are seen as both a moral victory for Telangana police and a reflection of growing ideological divisions within the CPI (Maoist) leadership. Authorities cite ideological divergence and internal disillusionment as key factors in the decision to lay down arms.

This development follows an appeal by Telangana Chief Minister urging Maoist cadres to join state development efforts. The state's 'Surrender and Rehabilitation Scheme' has facilitated over 5,000 surrenders since 1993, offering a new path for many former extremists.

(With inputs from agencies.)