Malkangiri, Oct 29: In a significant blow to the Maoist organisation, two senior leaders surrendered before the Telangana Police along the Malkangiri border. The surrendered cadres have been identified as Puluri Prasad Rao, alias Chandanna/Somanna, a Central Committee member, and Bandi Prakash, alias Prabhat, a State Committee member.

According to police sources, Puluri Prasad Rao, a native of Telangana, had been associated with the Maoist movement for nearly 45 years, serving as a Central Committee member for the past 17 years. His associate, Bandi Prakash, had also been active in the organisation for around four decades.

Both leaders carried a combined reward of over ₹2.5 crore on their heads and were listed among the most wanted Maoists across four states. Officials said their surrender has dealt a major jolt to the organisation’s leadership and network.

Police added that with several Central Committee members now choosing to return to the mainstream, the morale of the remaining cadres is rapidly declining. Authorities expressed optimism that more Maoist operatives are likely to surrender in the coming days as the organisation continues to weaken.