Top Maoist leader calls for end to violence
In a major shift, senior Maoist leader Mallojula Venugopal Rao (Bhupati) has publicly called for an end to violence after he and 60 others surrendered in Maharashtra.
Through a video message, he encouraged Maoists across India to leave the armed movement and join mainstream society, noting that others in places like Gadchiroli and North Bastar have already done the same.
Bhupati's message aims to encourage peaceful transition
Bhupati openly criticized his group's central leadership for refusing to adapt and spoke about the heavy losses faced by their movement.
He reassured fellow cadres that surrender is not betrayal, urging them to reintegrate legally.
Bhupati also reached out to intellectuals and Adivasi supporters, asking them to back this peaceful transition.
Local police say his message is meant to help more people choose peace over conflict.