130 Maoists lay down arms in Telangana

CM Revanth's emotional plea to Aging Leader Ganapati    

metro india news  I hyderabad

In a major event marking a significant stride towards peace in India's Maoist-affected regions, 130 Maoists, including key cadres from the outlawed group's Telangana State Committee, surrendered along with 124 sophisticated weapons before Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) on Saturday evening. This unprecedented gathering – the largest single-day surrender of armed Maoists in the country's history – underscored the state government's commitment to rehabilitation and democratic resolution over violence, CM stressed on this occasion.Addressing a press conference, CM Revanth Reddy hailed the surrendered rebels as "brave souls choosing the path of peace," congratulating them for heeding the government's call to join the mainstream.

He extended a heartfelt appeal to the aging ideologue Muppala Laxmana Rao alias Ganapati, believed to be over 75 and grappling with health challenges. "Ganapati, you too should surrender. The government is ready to ensure your safety and medical care. 

The surrender follows intensive dialogues initiated by the state with former Maoist leaders, including Devji, Sujata Akka, Raji Reddy, and Damodar, who recently shared their concerns during meetings with the CM. Highlighting the pan-India nature of the Maoist issue, Revanth Reddy revealed he had personally traveled to Delhi to brief Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Centre's nod cleared the way for comprehensive rehabilitation measures, including monetary rewards, Indiramma housing schemes, healthcare assurances, and reemployment opportunities. "Amit Shah assured that the Union government has no objections; Telangana can take all necessary steps," the CM stated, crediting the police for building trust through sustained persuasion.

In a bold policy shift, the government pledged to revoke pending cases against the surrendered Naxals within legal bounds and, if needed, form a review committee to expedite justice. A financial package for all rehabilitated cadres will be finalized soon, ensuring their seamless integration into society. Revanth Reddy stressed that the state views the ex-rebels sympathetically, urging them to channel their energies into Telangana's reconstruction. "Your insights on people's issues will guide us forward," he added, calling on remaining underground members to follow suit.

Reiterating India's Gandhian ethos, the CM declared, "The ballot is more powerful than the bullet. Dialogue, not destruction, is the only solution to our challenges." Drawing parallels to Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent triumph, he noted how nations worldwide now prioritize peaceful negotiations. "Let us resolve Telangana's problems democratically – violence solves nothing," he implored, envisioning a violence-free future where ex-Maoists contribute as active citizens. The Telangana Police, lauded for their role in facilitating this breakthrough, received special commendation from the CM.