From dreaded Maoist to Gondwana University coordinator in Gadchiroli
A former high-ranking Maoist leader has transitioned into a coordinator role at Gondwana University in Gadchiroli. He will now work to educate tribal communities on their legal rights and forest legislation.
Why it matters
This story illustrates a significant case of social rehabilitation and the shifting landscape of internal security and tribal advocacy in India.
Life has taken a 180-degree turn for Bhupathi alias Abhay alias Mallojula Venugopal alias Sonu. He was once a dreaded Maoist, who had a bounty of ₹6 crore on his head, with the police of six different States chasing him. Less than a year after surrendering before the Maharashtra Police, an event that had led to the breaking of the back of Maoism in Maharashtra, the 70-year-old man now looks at a different future.
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