Top Maoist Leader Madvi Hidma, Responsible For 26 Attacks, Killed In Andhra Pradesh

Madvi Hidma, a known Maoist leader, was killed in a confrontation with security forces in Andhra Pradesh, resulting in six deaths. His demise is pivotal for anti-Maoist operations in India.

Prominent Maoist leader Madvi Hidma, who had led 26 armed attacks against security forces, was shot dead in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju district on Tuesday.

The encounter resulted in the deaths of six Maoists, including Hidma and his wife. Hidma had a bounty of Rs 50 lakh on his head.

Hidma's involvement in significant attacks included the 2010 Dantewada incident, the 2013 Jhiram Valley massacre, and the 2021 Sukma-Bijapur encounter. His strategic skills in guerrilla warfare made him a formidable adversary for security forces.

Security Forces' Operation

The operation to neutralise Hidma was initiated after intelligence reports indicated Maoist movements near the Andhra Pradesh-Chhattisgarh-Odisha border. District Superintendent of Police Amit Bardar confirmed that four men and two women were killed during the exchange of gunfire.

It may be recalled that Hidma's mother, Madvi Punji, publicly had appealed to her son to abandon the armed struggle and surrender, last week. The development comes a week after her meeting with Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma in Sukma.

Background of Madvi Hidma

Hidma was born in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, in 1981. He led the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) – Battalion No 1. He was also the youngest member of the Central Committee of CPI (Maoist) and the only tribal from Bastar to join it. His military tactics and jungle terrain expertise made him highly dangerous.

Home Minister Amit Shah praised the security forces for their success in eliminating Hidma. Shah had set a deadline for November 30 to neutralise him as part of an anti-Maoist campaign. The minister aims to eradicate Maoism from India by March 31, 2026.

The encounter also claimed the life of Hidma's second wife, Raje (Rajakka), along with his bodyguards. This operation underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle Maoist activities in affected regions.

Hidma's death is seen as a crucial step towards reducing Maoist influence in India. It highlights the persistent efforts by security forces to ensure national safety and stability.