Ex-Maoist Leader Bhupathi Appointed Coordinator for Tribal Programme in Gadchiroli

Former Maoist commander Mallojula Venugopal Rao, popularly known as Bhupathi, has been appointed as a coordinator for Gondwana University’s ‘Ekal’ programme in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, officials said on Tuesday.

Under the new assignment, Bhupathi will handle administrative responsibilities focused on securing and supporting legal rights for tribal villagers across the region. The appointment has been made on a three-month contractual basis, and he will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 30,000 for his work.

Once a feared Naxal commander, Bhupathi laid down his arms last year to enter the mainstream. Following his surrender, he has taken up the university initiative to assist tribal communities through institutional and legal avenues.

The administrative role marks a shift for the former commander, directing his efforts toward facilitating community welfare and tribal rights in areas where he previously operated.