In a major setback to the banned CPI (Maoist), top leader Thippiri Tirupati alias Devji surrendered before the Special Intelligence Bureau of Telangana Police. The 62-year-old leader carried a bounty of Rs. 1 crore. Officials said his surrender will be formally documented within a day or two.
Devji was head of the Maoists' Central Military Commission for nearly two decades. After General Secretary Basavaraju was killed in May last year, he was reportedly elevated to the top position in the organisation. Security officials say there is no precedent for such a senior Maoist leader surrendering.
He was accompanied by Politburo member Malla Rajireddy alias Sangram. Around 16 other Naxalites also laid down arms. Officials described the move as a "historic achievement".
Operation Kagaar
Since the launch of 'Operation Kagaar' in January 2024, security forces have intensified joint operations in Maoist-affected areas, especially along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border. At least 520 Maoists have been killed in operations, including in Bastar.
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According to intelligence sources, the number of top armed Maoist cadres has dropped sharply from around 2,200 to 180. The militia strength has also reduced from nearly 7,000 to about 1,000, India Today reported.
A recent crackdown in the Karregutta hills reportedly damaged key Maoist bases. Communication lines were disrupted. Senior leaders were cornered. Continuous pressure and internal conflicts within the outfit are believed to have pushed Devji to surrender.
Big blow to Maoists
Security experts say Devji was a key strategist and part of the Central Committee leadership. His exit is likely to create a leadership vacuum. The Maoist network in the forest areas of Chhattisgarh and Telangana depended heavily on experienced commanders like him.
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With top leaders stepping down, the organisation may face strategic and ideological confusion. Officials believe this could encourage more cadres to surrender.
A formal press conference by Telangana Police is expected soon. Security forces say the development could speed up peace efforts in Left Wing Extremism-hit districts.
