Maoist Organization Labels Surrendered Naxalites as Traitors; Ramesh Says Decision Shared with Baswa Raju

 A notice issued under the name of Naxal leader Abhay listed the surrendered members, sparking controversy within the group.

Ramesh has defended the surrender, stating that the decision to lay down arms was not solely his; it was a joint decision with Maoist General Secretary Baswa Raju, who also advocated a temporary ceasefire. “Our concern was the safety of our comrades and securing our future,” Ramesh said. He questioned the transparency of the party, claiming that even during Dandakaranya meetings, he was unaware of the intentions of the Northern Bastar members.

Ramesh rejected allegations of coercion, asserting, “We surrendered to protect the organization, not under pressure. Accusations against us are false.”

The surrender took place on October 17 in Jagdalpur, during which 153 weapons were handed over. The Naxalites were transported to the Jagdalpur headquarters in three buses. Ramesh, a central committee member with a one-crore bounty, was among them.

Ramesh released a video addressing the controversy, reiterating that Baswa Raju had supported a ceasefire and direct talks with the government to secure the future of the cadres. He emphasized that the central committee was planning a meeting to formally decide on the ceasefire. While the government insisted that weapons be surrendered first, the Naxal leadership sought discussion within their core committee to ensure a proper resolution.