Senior Maoist leader Narahari, wife surrender before Telangana police
Hyderabad, May 26
Senior CPI leader Pasunoori Narahari and his wife Medara Danamma on Tuesday surrendered before Telangana Director General of Police C V Anand in Hyderabad, marking a significant development in the state's ongoing efforts to curb left-wing extremism.
According to officials, the couple laid down arms and joined the mainstream during a formal surrender event held at the police headquarters.
Speaking on the occasion, Anand said that both cadres had come out voluntarily and surrendered to the Telangana Police.
"Both have come out today and surrendered to the Telangana police. If we calculate the number of persons who are underground in Telangana, there are hardly three members left...We appeal to all of them to come out because the days are over. The society has changed. The ideology of Maoism has no place in the modern-day society of India. On behalf of the Telangana police and Telangana government, we appeal to all the remaining cadres to come out," Anand told reporters.
Earlier this month, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that India became Naxal-free even before the March 31 deadline, owing to the "courage and sacrifice" of the security forces.
Addressing a press conference in Jagdalpur, Amit Shah said that the people of Bastar are living without fear now. He hailed the Veer Gundadhur Sewa Dera initiative to provide development in Bastar, one of the biggest Naxal-affected regions.
Shah also hit out at the previous Bhupesh Baghel government in Chhattisgarh, alleging that the Congress did not support the Centre in the Naxal-free India initiative.
The Union Minister said, "An atmosphere of enthusiasm, confidence, and assurance regarding the future is visible everywhere among the people of Bastar. The climate of fear and the stifling reality of living under the shadow of guns have now come to an end, and Bastar is finally breathing freely. It is a matter of joy for all of us that Bastar has become Naxal-free."
"On August 24, 2024, when in a meeting, it was announced that the nation would be freed from the terror of Naxalim by March 31, 2026. Thanks to the valour, courage, and sacrifice of the security forces, Naxalism was eradicated ahead of the March 31 deadline," he added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I'm happy about this surrender, I do believe the government must also address the root causes of Naxalism - land rights, tribal welfare, and economic inequality. Violence isn't the answer, but neither is ignoring the genuine grievances of the marginalized. A balanced approach is needed.
This is a big blow to the Maoist movement. When senior leaders start surrendering, it shows the tide has turned. The security forces deserve credit for their relentless operations. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
Impressive progress indeed. My Indian colleagues in the UK have been telling me about how the security situation in central India has improved dramatically over the last few years. This surrender is further proof that the strategy is working.
I'm cautiously optimistic. While I appreciate the security forces' efforts, I also hope the rehabilitation of these surrendered cadres is done properly. They shouldn't just be abandoned after surrender. The government must ensure they get meaningful livelihood opportunities.
Having worked on development projects in Telangana, I've seen firsthand how improved infrastructure and education are changing mindsets. The Maoist ideology simply cannot compete with the opportunities a developing India offers. Well done to all involved. 👏
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