The CPI (Maoist) general secretary, Namballa Keshav Rao (alias Basavaraju), was killed by security forces in Chhattisgarh.
His death is seen as the biggest blow to Maoists since 2010, when their spokesperson Cherukuri Rajkumar was killed.
Basavaraju led many attacks on police and paramilitary forces and pushed for continued armed struggle over political engagement.
His killing reflects the failure of the Maoists’ military strategy and is viewed as a major win for the Indian government.
The government aims to eliminate the Maoist threat by 2026, according to Home Minister Amit Shah.
Maoists had shown interest in peace talks, raising questions about whether top leaders could have been arrested instead of killed.
Many Maoist fighters have recently surrendered, but top leaders have resisted giving up armed struggle.
Recruitment has dropped, and support from tribal communities, especially in south Chhattisgarh, has declined.
Tribals, tired of suffering from the conflict, are less attracted to Maoist ideology now.
The government's tribal welfare efforts and better security have weakened the Maoists' presence in forests.
Despite weakening, armed operations have also led to the deaths of many tribal youth, which could cause new anger.
The government is urged to push for peace talks to end violence, instead of relying solely on force.
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