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A press release by the CPI (Maoist), dated August 15, was released to local journalists in Chhattisgarh and stated that “we have decided to unconditionally lay down arms”
A letter issued by Maoist spokesperson Abhay (inset) has raised hopes of a breakthrough in the Centre’s campaign to end Naxalism by March 2026 as promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah last year. (Image: PTI/News18/File)
In a major boost to the Centre’s peace efforts a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, the CPI (Maoist) has offered a “temporary” ceasefire. The government, however, was cautious in its reaction and said the statement’s authenticity is being verified.
A letter issued by Maoist spokesperson Abhay has raised hopes of a breakthrough in the government’s campaign to end Naxalism by March 2026 as promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah last year.
The statement, dated August 15, was released to local journalists in Chhattisgarh and stated that “we have decided to unconditionally lay down arms”. It said this was in response to “appeals made by prime minister, home minister and senior police officers”.
The press note, which features the latest photograph of Mallujola Venugopal alias Abhay, further referred to the changing international and national scenario.
“We have decided to declare a temporary ceasefire, but we will continue to raise issues of public importance and engage with political parties and organisations,” it said.
The statement’s release, however, mentioned a footnote that it was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. Sources on the ground in Bastar told News18 that because of the forward operating bases of paramilitary forces and constant patrolling, operations by state police and CRPF, movement of Maoist cadres has become difficult. This might have delayed the release of the statement.
WHAT DID THE GOVERNMENT SAY?
Both the central and state governments reacted cautiously to the latest development.
“We have taken note of a press release issued in the name of the CPI (Maoist) central committee regarding the laying down of arms and the prospect of peace talks. The authenticity of this release is being verified, and its contents are under careful examination. It is reiterated that any decision on engagement or dialogue with the CPI (Maoist) lies solely with the government, which will take an appropriate call after due consideration and assessment of the situation and circumstances,” IG Bastar P Sundarraj told News18.
A senior officer in the intelligence wing said while “prima facie” the letter appeared to be authentic, the next 48 hours are crucial to see if there is any further clarification or denial.
“Naxals are under pressure. Earlier this year, too, conditional surrender was mentioned by central committee members, but this is the first time that unconditional giving up of arms has been mentioned. Also, the reference to the PM and HM’s appeal is new,” the officer said.
WHAT DID THE LETTER SAY?
The CPI (Maoist) has offered talks with a committee appointed by the Union Home Minister but the statement seeks a month’s time to apprise its jailed leaders and cadres about the decision.
“We are also willing to engage with government representatives via video call,” the statement read.
The sources said attaching Abhay’s latest photo with the release might be a way to establish authenticity and gain the confidence of the government should the video call be accepted as a mode of communication.
The statement further appeals to Maoist supporters among Dalits, tribals, women, religious minorities, writers, and artists to understand the circumstances under which the decision of ceasefire has been taken. Naxals have released email and Facebook IDs for supporters to share their thoughts on it.
Arunima is Editor (Home Affairs) and covers strategic, security and political affairs. From the Ukraine-Russia War to the India-China stand-off in Ladakh to India-Pak clashes, she has reported from ground zero …Read More
Arunima is Editor (Home Affairs) and covers strategic, security and political affairs. From the Ukraine-Russia War to the India-China stand-off in Ladakh to India-Pak clashes, she has reported from ground zero … Read More
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