CPI (Maoist) faces blow as key leader Devji surrenders before Telangana police

Tippiri Tirupati, alias Devji, the general secretary of CPI (Maoist), has surrendered to Telangana police along with 16 others, including senior leaders. Devji, who carried a Rs 25 lakh reward, was elevated to the top post eight months ago.

Hyderabad: Top CPI (Maoist) leader Tippiri Tirupati, also known as Devji, (60), has reportedly surrendered to Telangana police along with 16 others including a few high profile leaders.

The Maoist general secretary carried a reward of Rs 25 lakh in Telangana. The senior officials, however, have declined to comment on the development that took place in Mulugu district of Telangana.

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A native of Karimnagar district, Devji, was appointed general secretary about eight months ago after former party chief Nambala Keshava Rao, known as Basavaraju, was killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in May last year.

Telangana police’s Special Intelligence Bureau, which handles anti-Maoist operations, is in touch with the families, friends and acquaintances of the Maoist leaders and cadres who are ready to surrender.

Telangana DGP, B Shivadhar Reddy, had issued a fresh call a week ago for the Maoists to surrender and join the mainstream.

Also, Malla Raji Reddy alias Sangram, a Central Committee Member (CCM) and Politburo Member (PBM) of CPI (Maoist) surrendered before the Telangana police.

An official communique from the Telangana police is expected on the developments soon.