The Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) of Telangana, which served as the nerve centre for anti-naxal intelligence gathering for over three decades, is organizing an informal reunion of all officers to celebrate the state government's declaration that naxalism has ended in Telangana. The event will be held in Hyderabad on Friday.
Exclusions and Attendees
While Prabhakar Rao, who served as SIB chief during the BRS tenure, is reportedly missing from the invite list due to his alleged involvement in the phone-tapping case, several other prominent IPS officers are expected to attend. These include Arvind Rao, M Mahendar Reddy, B Shivadhar Reddy, VC Sajjanar, Naveen Chand, Anil Kumar, and others who played key roles in anti-naxal operations.
History of SIB and Greyhounds
The SIB, along with the anti-naxal intelligence wing and the anti-commando force Greyhounds, was formed in 1991 when left-wing extremism (LWE) in erstwhile Andhra Pradesh was at its peak. Many officers continued to serve in SIB post-retirement due to their expertise, witnessing the movement's peak and developing counter-strategies, including covert intelligence operations.
Recent Developments
After the Congress government came to power in 2023, SIB officials under chief B Sumathi maintained tight border vigilance, anticipating naxal entry due to Operation Kagar. In line with state policy, police encouraged Maoist surrenders. In the last six months, hundreds of Maoists, including Central Committee members, have laid down their arms.
