Surrendered Maoist Leaders Meet Telangana CM, Seek Enhanced Rehabilitation Package
In a significant development in Hyderabad, top leaders of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoists), including the prominent figure Devji, met with Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy just four days after their surrender to senior police officers. The meeting focused on discussions regarding the financial rehabilitation package for the surrendered leaders, with sources indicating they sought a substantial enhancement from the existing policy.
Details of the Meeting and Key Attendees
The surrendered Maoist leaders, who formally gave themselves up earlier this week, included Tipirri Tirupati alias Devji, Malla Raji Reddy, Chandranna, Sujatha, Chokka Rao, and Narasimha Reddy. During the meeting, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed appreciation for their decision to surrender and assured them of security and other necessary assistance to facilitate their reintegration into mainstream society.
High-ranking officials were present at the meeting, underscoring its importance. These included Director General of Police Shivadhar Reddy, intelligence chief Vijay Kumar, and SIB chief B Sumathi Reddy, highlighting the coordinated effort between law enforcement and state administration in handling this sensitive matter.
Key Demands and Rehabilitation Policy
According to sources familiar with the discussions, the surrendered Maoists reportedly requested land as part of their rehabilitation package, in addition to financial support. They also expressed a willingness to visit various prisons where arrested Maoist members are currently lodged, possibly to encourage further surrenders or to address concerns about incarcerated comrades.
The existing state rehabilitation policy stipulates that a central committee member of the Maoist organization is entitled to a payment of Rs 25 lakh upon surrender. However, during the meeting, the leaders sought an increase in this amount to Rs 1 crore, citing the need for more substantial support to rebuild their lives and ensure long-term stability.
Political Implications and Future Steps
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is expected to make a formal statement regarding the surrender of these senior Maoist leaders in the upcoming assembly session. This move is likely aimed at addressing public and political concerns, while also outlining the state's strategy for dealing with left-wing extremism through rehabilitation rather than solely punitive measures.
The meeting marks a critical step in Telangana's approach to counter-insurgency, emphasizing dialogue and support for those willing to abandon armed struggle. It reflects ongoing efforts to reduce Maoist influence in the region by offering viable alternatives to violence, with the enhanced financial package potentially serving as a key incentive for future surrenders.
