Turning Point in Gadchiroli: Maoist Surrenders Signal Possible Peace

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared an important day for Gadchiroli district, as Maoist leader Mallojula Venugopal Rao, alias Sonu, surrendered with 60 followers. The surrender marks a potential turning point in the region’s long struggle against Maoist influence.

Fadnavis highlighted the decades-long battle against Maoism in Gadchiroli and surrounding areas, including districts like Chandrapur, Bhandara, and Gondia, and neighboring regions in Chhattisgarh and Telangana. He noted that these areas were historically deprived of development due to the insurgency, with youth often misguided by the movement. Sonu's surrender is particularly significant given his role in starting a new Maoist group in the district 40 years ago.

Rao's surrender comes amid calls for peace talks with the government. Despite initiating talks in March 2025, and issuing a press statement in May suggesting a ceasefire, the central government has not formally responded. The surrender also comes in the wake of a deadly attack by Seema Suraksha Bal, which claimed the life of key Maoist leader Basavraju. Rao said this motivated the decision to lay down arms and participate in peace talks, inviting government-appointed delegates to join.