Former Maoist Leader Advocates for Legal Political Engagement in Telangana
In a significant development in Hyderabad, a senior former Maoist leader, who recently emerged from years underground, has called on the Telangana government to push for the lifting of the ban on the Communist Party of India (Maoist). Thippiri Tirupathi, also known as Devji, stated that the party is prepared to function within the legal framework and disband its armed wing, the People's Liberation Guerilla Army (PLGA), if provided with political space.
Proposals Submitted to Chief Minister
Devji outlined this shift from armed struggle to open political engagement during an interview, emphasizing that the core proposal was presented to Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in a meeting on February 27. "In our meeting with the CM, we asked for lifting the ban on our party and recommended this to Union Home Minister Amit Shah. When we commit to working legally, the PLGA will automatically cease to exist," he claimed. The CM reportedly responded positively but noted that the ban falls under the jurisdiction of the central government.
Clarifications on Party Dissolution and Demands
Devji clarified that the proposal does not involve dissolving the Maoist party itself, only its military wing. "Dissolving the military wing is different from dissolving the party," he explained. Additionally, he sought the release of jailed Maoist leaders, activists, and sympathizers, advocating for their recognition as political prisoners. He called for an end to the harassment labeled as 'Urban Naxal' and urged the release of those detained under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
"If you encourage people to abandon weapons and join the mainstream, but then brand them as 'Urban Naxals' and imprison them again, it undermines peace and tests the government's sincerity," Devji asserted. He also addressed reports about demanding Rs 1 crore and five acres of land for surrendered Maoists, admitting it was a hasty mistake and not part of the official agenda.
Transition to Public Life and Ideological Stance
Rejecting the notion of surrender, Devji described his move as a transition to open political work. He revealed that he was arrested by Telangana police during 'Operation Kagar' while relocating to coordinate party affairs. "Some truly surrendered, some inevitably. Others like us aimed to enter public life to fulfill our responsibilities," he said.
Despite a shrinking armed presence, Devji believes the movement retains a broad social base. "Although visible cadres are limited, millions of supporters exist. With a political program, the movement can recover," he noted, emphasizing the need for public engagement to organize people.
He maintained that abandoning armed struggle does not equate to giving up ideology. "If I rejected Marxism-Maoism, that would be surrender. We still adhere to Marxist-Maoist theory," Devji stated. However, he dismissed claims of entering electoral politics, clarifying that the party seeks to work among people outside parliamentary systems.
Future Outlook and Social Relevance
When asked about a potential return to militancy, Devji affirmed, "Once we pledge to work legally, we will honor that commitment." He acknowledged a temporary defeat but argued that underlying social issues persist. "Our movement faced a setback, but causes like land disputes, exploitation, and atrocities remain," he said, linking the movement's relevance to poverty, caste dignity, and environmental protection for marginalized communities.
