Two hardcore Maoists surrender before police along Odisha–Telangana border

The Maoist stronghold in neighbouring Telangana appears to be weakening as two senior leaders, Bandi Prakash and P. Prasada Rao, surrendered to state authorities on Tuesday. Both handed themselves over to Telangana Director General of Police Shivadhar Reddy in Hyderabad, signalling a potential decline in the influence of the insurgent group in the state.

Bandi Prakash, also known as Prabhat, had been a member of the Maoist State Committee for 45 years. A native of Mancherial district, he joined the movement while still in school and gradually rose through the ranks to become a key strategist. 

Prakash once led operations in the Prabhat area and was a participant in the 2004 peace talks aimed at resolving conflicts with the government.

Pulluri Prasad Rao, known as Chandranna, was associated with the central committee for 17 years. He joined the movement in 1980 under the guidance of Kishenji, one of the top leaders of the People’s War Group. Rao cited deteriorating health and personal reasons for his decision to give up arms and return to civil life.

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DGP Shivadhar Reddy assured that both leaders would receive protection and the rewards announced earlier for surrendering. He also stated that around 64 Maoists remain active in Telangana, adding that the government is prepared to assist any member willing to lay down arms. The surrenders mark a significant development in the state’s ongoing efforts to curb Maoist activities.