Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Intelligence Points to Devji as New CPI (Maoist) Chief, With Hidma to Lead DKZC

The reported shake-up stems from intelligence gleaned after recent surrenders, with no formal Maoist communiqué to date.

Overview

  • Sources in Telangana intelligence told The Indian Express that Thippiri Tirupathi, known as Devji, has taken over as general secretary of the CPI (Maoist).
  • Surrendered cadre Kamlesh, questioned by Andhra Pradesh police, said central committee member Mandvi Hidma has been appointed secretary of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee.
  • Intelligence inputs indicate the elevation was discussed at a recent Indravati area committee meeting, though some officers say the gathering itself remains unverified.
  • Devji, a longtime head of the Central Military Commission, was a leading contender alongside Mallojula Venugopal Rao (Sonu) and is linked to major past attacks, according to police records.
  • Police officials describe the outfit as weakened by losses and infighting and note that neither Maoist channels nor security agencies have publicly confirmed the reported appointments.