A senior Maoist leader who recently surrendered has provided police with critical insights, stating that the banned CPI (Maoist) is currently in a defensive posture with no immediate plans to launch attacks. This shift is a direct result of sustained and intense pressure from security forces across its areas of operation.
Confession Details Strategic Retreat and Internal Changes
The revelations come from 64-year-old Pulluri Prasad Rao, alias Chandranna, a former central committee member of the outfit. In his detailed confession, Chandranna stated that the organization presently has "no targets" and has effectively halted offensive actions, particularly in forest regions. The continuous combing operations and surveillance have forced a fundamental rethink in how the cadre functions.
The focus has shifted from carrying out strikes to avoiding detection at all costs. Chandranna explained that younger cadres have been instructed to operate in smaller, more mobile groups to reduce the risk of being spotted. Furthermore, the leadership has taken internal decisions to relocate elderly and ageing members to safer locations or to facilitate their formal surrender, indicating a concern for the cadre's longevity and morale.
Shift to Internet and Past Training Exposed
Chandranna shed significant light on the group's evolving communication and logistical methods. To avoid tracking by authorities, cadres are now "mostly using the internet" and deliberately avoiding regular mobile phone use. Internal communication relies on a mix of internet-based platforms, limited cell phones, letters, and other indirect channels.
The surrendered leader also disclosed historical details about the group's training. He revealed that Maoist cadres received weapons training from a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 1989. Later, in the year 2000, communication training was imparted by an instructor from the Philippines in the Maad area, highlighting past international linkages in skill development.
Funding, Hideouts, and Personal Surrender
On the financial front, Chandranna reported that the CPI (Maoist) continues to raise funds in Telangana, largely through collections from contractors and businessmen. He disclosed that a substantial amount of around ₹1.5 crore was collected in 2024 alone for the Telangana state committee.
He identified key logistical hubs for the outfit, naming the South Bastar region and the Karreguttalu hillock area as crucial zones where shelters and hideouts are maintained. Cadres stationed on the Karreguttalu hillocks sustain themselves by locally cultivating fruits and vegetables, with the organization actively growing produce to support those in hiding.
Recounting his own decision to surrender in October of this year, Chandranna stated he was camping on the Karreguttalu hillocks and sought permission from central committee member Thippiri Tirupathi, alias Devji. He cited intense pressure from security forces and severe knee pain as the primary reasons for laying down arms, after having escaped multiple exchanges of fire over his years of involvement.
