Raipur
The Communist Party of India (Maoist) has announced a temporary suspension of its armed struggle, stating that it will now engage in ‘people’s struggles‘ to address the issues of the oppressed people of India.
In a press release issued by the party’s Central Committee on Tuesday late evening, spokesperson Abhay stated that the party’s changed stance is being made public before the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, chief ministers of Maoist-affected states, opposition leaders, and the general public.
The statement said the party has been making serious efforts for peace talks with the government since the last week of March 2025. It referenced a press statement on 10 May by the party’s general secretary, Basavaraju, who had proposed a one-month ceasefire to consult with senior leaders on the issue of abandoning arms.
The release said the Union government did not show a positive attitude. It instead intensified its “encirclement and elimination” military attacks that have been ongoing since January 2024. The press release noted a fierce attack on 21 May near Gunderkot where 28 cadres were killed, including General Secretary Basavaraju, central committee staff, and security guards. The party said its cadres put up a brave resistance.
The CPI (Maoist) said it has decided to continue the peace process initiated by Basavaraju. The party is now prepared for a dialogue with the Union Home Minister or his representatives. It has requested a one-month formal ceasefire to consult with its cadres working in different states and those in jails.
The party’s statement said it will fight for people’s issues “shoulder to shoulder” with all political parties and struggling organisations. It has asked the government to broadcast its decision via All India Radio and Doordarshan so that all cadres not connected to the internet can be informed. The party said it will be able to check its email and Facebook accounts to receive feedback from cadres only after the government provides an assurance of cooperation.
The statement appealed to the working people, Dalits, tribals, women, religious minorities, intellectuals, and human rights activists to understand its decision. Abhay signed the press release and added a special note stating the statement was issued late for various reasons. The party also invited opinions from its cadres and supporters via email and Facebook.
