Maoists call for one-month ceasefire, seek dialogue with government

Chhattisgarh: In a purported statement, the Communist Party of India (Maoist) has announced a temporary suspension of its armed struggle and expressed willingness to hold peace talks with the central government. However, the group has asked the government to declare a one-month ceasefire and stop all security operations to start the process.

The announcement came through a two-page letter dated August 15, issued in the name of Abhay, a spokesperson of the party’s Central Committee. The statement was shared on social media platforms and is currently being verified by authorities.

Chhattisgarh government responds cautiously

Reacting to the development, Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who also holds the home portfolio, stated that the authenticity of the statement is being examined. He emphasised that in a democracy, talks cannot be conditional and criticised the use of the term “ceasefire.”

He added that the best way for Maoists is to surrender and avail themselves of rehabilitation benefits.

However, after verifying the statement, discussions will be held within the government, he said.

Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P, responding to this, said the police have taken note of the press release and are examining its authenticity.

He added that any decision on engagement or dialogue lies solely with the government, which will assess the situation carefully before proceeding.

The letter comes months after Basavaraju’s death

The decision to halt violence follows four months after the death of their top leader, Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, who was killed in an encounter in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region.

The statement claims that Basavaraju had earlier initiated the idea of talks and that the party now wants to continue that process.

Maoists cite national and global changes

In the letter, the Maoists said the decision was influenced by changing national and global circumstances and repeated calls from top government leaders, including the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister, urging rebels to abandon violence and join the mainstream.

"We have decided to declare a temporary halt to the armed struggle. We are making it clear that in the future, we will fight shoulder to shoulder with all political parties and organisations fighting for the public cause as far as possible...We are ready to talk to the Union Home Minister or persons appointed by him or a delegation on this issue,” the statement said.

They also expressed openness to consulting party members across the country, including those in jail, before proceeding.

The Maoists have proposed that the initial discussions could take place via video call. They have reiterated the need for the government to stop search operations immediately to create a conducive environment for peace talks.