Overview

• He laid down arms in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, officials said.
• Rao requested one month to confer with comrades, including those in jail, and said he is ready to form a delegation for peace talks, according to statements reported by ANI.
• He appealed for a temporary pause in security operations and indicated willingness to participate in discussions via video if required.
• Security officials described the surrender as a significant setback for the CPI (Maoist), citing likely damage to its leadership, communications, and influence in South Bastar.
• Officials noted he had signaled readiness to abandon armed struggle earlier, including an August 15 release and support from cadres across several states, while stressing rehabilitation for those who surrender and continued action against holdouts.