Maoist ceasefire statement sparks debate on future of armed struggle

By Harsh Thakor*

The recent statement announcing a temporary ceasefire in the Maoist armed struggle, attributed to Central Committee spokesperson Abhay, has sparked wide debate. The statement, issued with an August 15 dateline, declared a “temporary renunciation of armed struggle” and a willingness to lay down arms. It also addressed the prime minister and home minister respectfully and urged state governments in Maoist-affected regions to take a peace-oriented approach.

Observers have described this development as unprecedented in the history of the banned CPI (Maoist), raising speculation that the decades-long insurgency may be undergoing a fundamental shift. The inclusion of a photograph of Abhay in the release was particularly notable, given the underground nature of the movement and its long-standing emphasis on secrecy.

This is not the first time the Maoists have signaled openness to talks. In April this year, a press statement attributed to Abhay referred to peace negotiations, although it stopped short of proposing a surrender of arms. The latest statement went further, declaring explicitly, “We have decided to give up arms.”

The backdrop to these announcements is the continuing military campaign by the government. Since early 2024, Operation Kagar has sought to dismantle the Maoist movement through large-scale operations across several states. The government has consistently maintained that the Maoists must surrender unconditionally, while rejecting negotiations on other terms. Meanwhile, intellectuals, rights groups, and political parties have called for a halt to the offensive and for dialogue to reduce violence.

The Maoists have faced significant losses in recent months. Senior leaders, including the party’s General Secretary and several Central and State Committee members, have been killed in operations. Some cadres, citing health issues, have surrendered with party permission. These setbacks have fueled questions about divisions within the organization.

Indeed, the new statement has been interpreted by some as reflecting internal differences. A commemorative release marking the CPI (Maoist)’s 21st anniversary emphasized conditions for peace talks, while Abhay’s declaration suggested readiness to surrender arms outright. Party figures such as Jagan, another spokesperson, have expressed concern about decisions being announced publicly without broader consultation, warning that such steps could create confusion among members.

In a separate statement, Comrade Sonu reiterated that the party has been seeking peace talks since March 2025 and confirmed support for a temporary ceasefire. He called for one month’s time to consult leaders across the country and expressed readiness to engage with the government, even suggesting video discussions. The appeal extended beyond the state to civil society groups, urging cooperation to reduce violence.

Questions also remain over leadership succession. Abhay, whose real name is Mallojula Venugopal, has been underground since the 1970s and has long served as a strategist and spokesperson for the Maoist movement. His personal circumstances, including the recent surrender of close family members who were also senior party figures, may also be shaping perceptions of the latest statement.

Whether the government will respond positively, and whether the declaration reflects a consensus within the Maoist leadership or a factional initiative, is still unclear. What is evident, however, is that the statement has opened an important moment in the ongoing conflict, one that may either pave the way for dialogue or deepen internal and external divisions.

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*Freelance journalist

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