ADGP Says Police Have No Lead on Maoist Leader Devuji

Andhra Pradesh Intelligence Chief Mahesh Chandra Laddha on Wednesday stated that the police have no information on the whereabouts of CPI (Maoist) general secretary Thippiri Tirupati, popularly known as Devuji. His clarification follows allegations by civil rights groups that the Maoist leader has been held in secret custody.

Addressing reporters on November 19, Mr. Laddha, who serves as Additional Director General of Police (Intelligence), said there has been no arrest, surrender, or confirmed sighting of Devuji so far. “We have no information on his whereabouts,” he said, adding that intelligence assessments indicate Chhattisgarh or Telangana as possible locations.

Devuji, a native of Korutla in Telangana’s Jagtial district, remains one of the most wanted Maoist leaders in India. He is wanted by police in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Maharashtra for his alleged role in armed insurgency, attacks on security personnel, and leadership of the banned CPI (Maoist) Central Committee. Despite extensive operations, he has managed to evade arrest for several years.

Civil rights organisations, including the Andhra Pradesh Civil Liberties Committee (APCLC) and CPI-ML New Democracy, have voiced serious concern over the situation. They allege that the police have already detained Devuji and accuse the authorities of staging recent encounters. “The police must ensure the safety of anyone in custody and produce Mr. Tirupati before a court,” APCLC State General Secretary Chiluka Chandrashekar said.

The claims have added to the scrutiny on ongoing anti-Maoist operations in the state. While rights groups demand transparency and accountability, police officials insist that no secret detention has taken place. The state government is yet to issue a formal response.