National: Families Await Deceased Maoists’ Bodies Amid Delays in Chhattisgarh
Prolonged Wait for Repatriation
Following a significant anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarh’s Abujhmad region on May 21, 2025, families of the deceased are facing prolonged delays in receiving the bodies of their kin. The encounter, which resulted in the deaths of 27 Maoists, including CPI (Maoist) General Secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, has left relatives in distress as authorities have yet to hand over the remains.
Allegations of Obstruction
Civil rights leaders V. Chittibabu and Chiluka Chandrasekhar have accused Srikakulam SP Maheshwar Reddy of obstructing efforts to transport Nambala Keshava Rao’s body to his native village. They allege that Rao’s brother was forcibly recalled from Chhattisgarh, placed under surveillance, and subjected to house arrest, prompting a formal complaint to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Home Minister Anitha.
Judicial Intervention and Police Pressure
Rao’s family sought judicial recourse to claim his body, but allegations surfaced that lower-level police officials in Chhattisgarh pressured them to conduct last rites locally. This has intensified tensions, with families and advocates decrying the lack of transparency and procedural delays in the repatriation process.
Delays for Other Deceased
The bodies of Bhoomika alias Vannada Vijayalakshmi (38) and Gonegandla Lalitha alias Sangeeta (45), killed in the same encounter, remain unclaimed due to unclear communication from Chhattisgarh police. Bhoomika’s father and relatives, who traveled to Narayanpur district hospital, were informed that a decision would follow discussions with senior officials.
Families’ Anguish and Uncertainty
The family of Burra Rakesh alias Vivek from Warangal has been waiting five days to receive his body, with no clear timeline provided by authorities. Lalitha’s family, informed late of her death, also traveled to Chhattisgarh, only to face similar bureaucratic hurdles, amplifying their grief and frustration.
Broader Implications
The delays have sparked concerns about the handling of such cases, with families expressing anguish over the prolonged wait and lack of clarity. Civil rights groups are calling for streamlined procedures to ensure timely repatriation and respect for the deceased and their kin.