Maoist Commander Madvi Hidma Neutralised in Major Andhra Operation

Maoist Commander Madvi Hidma Killed in Andhra Forests

The killing of Madvi Hidma—one of the most powerful and elusive Maoist commanders—marks a turning point in India’s long battle against Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). Hidma was shot dead during a four-hour encounter in the dense forests of Maredumilli in Andhra Pradesh, in a meticulously planned operation executed with precision by specialised anti-Maoist units. His death comes at a time when Maoist influence is rapidly shrinking, accompanied by the highest-ever surrender rate of cadres.

Background and Significance of Hidma’s Role

Hailing from Sukma district, Hidma rose through the ranks to become the chief of the PLGA Battalion 1 , the most lethal military formation of the CPI (Maoist). Known for his ruthless operational strategies, he was linked to several high-casualty attacks across Chhattisgarh and carried one of the highest bounties among Maoist insurgents. His influence extended across Dandakaranya, where he coordinated logistics, training, recruitment, and guerrilla operations.

The Maredumilli Operation

Acting on pinpoint intelligence, Andhra Pradesh’s elite Greyhounds , assisted by central forces, launched a pre-dawn assault near the tri-junction of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. Hidma, his wife Raje, and four other Maoists were killed after they attempted to evade cordon teams in rugged forest terrain. The encounter is seen as one of the most significant Maoist setbacks in recent years.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Naxalite movement began in 1967 at Naxalbari, West Bengal .

• At its peak, the Red Corridor covered 125+ districts .

• Over 1,600 Maoists surrendered in 2025 .

• The CPI (Maoist) armed wing is the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) .