File photo of senior Maoist leader Chalapathi with his wife Aruna. Photo: Special Edition
The killing of Ramachandra Reddy Gari Pratap Reddy, also known as Chalapati, has sparked chaos in his hometown of Chittoor district, following his death during an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh. Chalapati was a key figure in the Maoist movement and served as the party’s Odisha secretary.
Climbing the ranks
Born and brought up in Matyam Paipalle village within Tavanampally jurisdiction of Chittoor district, Chalapati was educated up to graduation level. He studied at Madanapalle and Tirupati institutes, and eventually joined the Sericulture Department as part of his first job. His professional life took a sudden turn when he was in Visakhapatnam, where he came in contact with Maoist groups. Over time, he rose from a local worker to a prominent and influential leader among the ranks of the Maoists. Earning fame for his ability to evade the law, Chalapati had previously escaped from his capture during a meeting announced in the Visakha Agency area.
The government eventually put a ₹1 crore bounty on his head, emphasizing his status as a key target of the security forces. Reports indicate that his family has distanced themselves from him following his joining the Maoist group. His elder brother, Chandrasekhar Reddy, continues to work in the Sericulture department in Madanapalle, now part of Annamayya district.
Locals noted that Chalapati’s family left their ancestral home several years ago, due to tension related to his activities. His death is seen as a major blow to the Maoist movement in the agency areas.
Published – January 22, 2025 07:26 am IST