Former Naxals carving a niche in Telangana's political arena

In Telangana's political arena, there is an intriguing development where individuals with backgrounds in Naxalism have carved out a place for themselves. This is not entirely surprising, given the state's history of left-wing extremism, particularly the influence once held by the People's War Group in North Telangana.

- SUSHMITA

Two notable figures with such backgrounds are Congress' Danasari Anasuya, also known as Seethakka, and Bade Nagajyoti, who represent the ruling BRS party and are both running in elections. Their presence challenges the long-held belief by far-left ideologues that political power can only be achieved through armed struggle. Seethakka, a former commander of the Chandra Pulla Reddy faction of the CPI (ML) who once embraced Naxalism, surrendered and transitioned into mainstream politics. She successfully entered the state assembly as a TDP candidate in 2009 and later, after switching to the Congress, won the 2018 state elections in the same constituency. Seethakka is known for her rela