Maoists offer to lay down arms in a letter; verifying, says Chhattisgarh Government

A purported letter of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist), offering to give up arms in view of the changed world and country’s circumstances, albeit with certain conditions, appeared in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday (September 16, 2025).

While State Home Minister Vijay Sharma and the police say they have taken note of the letter, and are verifying its contents, the Minister told journalists that there are some new elements in the letter.

Opinion of cadres

In the purported press release issued by CPI (Maoist) spokesperson Abhay, the Maoists have reportedly sought opinions from their supporters and cadres through Facebook and e-mail while expressing the need to hold discussions with their jailed cadres.

“In order to take forward the process of peace talks, we are making it clear that, in view of the changed world and country’s circumstances, as well as the requests made by the Prime Minister, Home Minister and senior police officers to give up arms and join the mainstream, we have decided to give up arms. We have decided to declare a temporary halt to the armed struggle. In future, we will fight with all political parties and struggling organisations on public issues,” the letter read.

It added that the banned outfit was “ready to talk to the Union Home Minister or persons appointed by him or a delegation on this subject”.

“Later, we will prepare a delegation of those comrades who agree or oppose this and will participate in the peace talks,” the letter added.

Under fire due to sustained security operations in Bastar and facing a leadership crisis following the gunning down of former general secretary Basavaraju, the Maoists have offered peace talks several times in the past.

In the latest letter, they speak about a change in their stance but reiterate their condition that the government must stop search operations for a month. “On May 10, our general secretary had issued a press statement in the name of comrade Abhay, proposing a ceasefire, asking for one month’s time to consult with the highest leadership on giving up arms. But, unfortunately, the Central government did not show any favourable response,” the letter stated.

In response to the letter, Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) P. Sundarraj said its authenticity is being verified and any decision to engage was the call of the government. “It is reiterated that any decision on engagement or dialogue with the CPI (Maoist) lies solely with the government, which will take an appropriate call after due consideration and assessment of the situation and circumstances,” he said.