Maoist Leader Reunites With Family After 43 Years

After 43 years of separation, Thippiri Tirupathi finally hugged his family again. The 62-year-old, known as Devuji during his time as a senior Maoist leader, surrendered peacefully to Telangana Police this week, making the reunion his family never thought possible.

"I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw him alive on news channels," said Gangadhar, Devuji's youngest brother, who traveled from Korutla town to Hyderabad for the reunion. He had remained glued to the television all day, replaying the footage on his phone when the news coverage stopped.

Gangadhar brought his wife to meet his brother, while their sister and her family also attended. The meeting was so overwhelming that words seemed unnecessary at first.

"There were only happy tears and hugs, and not much talking," Gangadhar shared. "There is so much to talk about, so many questions to ask, but today we were all too overwhelmed to speak much."

Devuji was one of four Maoist leaders who surrendered together on Tuesday. Another emotional reunion took place when Snehlatha Reddy met her father, Malla Raji Reddy, after nearly 40 years apart.

The Telangana Police facilitated these family meetings and provided medical support. Devuji has high blood sugar and hadn't had access to medicine for some time, but he's now receiving treatment and hospital care.

Why This Inspires

These peaceful surrenders represent more than just individuals laying down arms. They show that even after decades of conflict, paths home still exist for those ready to take them.

Each reunion reminds us that behind political movements are real people with families who never stopped hoping. Gangadhar's willingness to welcome his brother home with open arms shows the power of family bonds that time cannot break.

Devuji has expressed his wish to settle back in his hometown of Korutla, where he can finally build the life and relationships that decades underground made impossible. His brother and sister are ready to help him adjust to a world that has changed dramatically since he left.

The surrenders come as India works to resolve longstanding conflicts through rehabilitation programs. Under Telangana's policy, the former leaders receive financial support to help them restart their lives.

For families like Gangadhar's, the surprise reunion brings closure and a chance to rebuild what was lost. After 43 years of wondering if they would ever see Devuji again, they can now look forward to ordinary moments like family dinners and shared stories.

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