Former Maoist Leader Finds New Purpose as University Official

Mallojula Venugopal, a 70-year-old former Maoist leader, has transitioned from a life in the jungle to a role as a coordinator with Gondwana University's Ekal Project and Centre. The university, with 60,000 students across its campus and affiliated colleges, has partnered with the district administration to reach gram sabhas.

It has been nearly a year since Venugopal. Also known as Sonu or Bhupathi, surrendered to the authorities on October 15, 2025, leaving behind a life as a high-profile Maoist leader.

The surrender, which included 60 other cadres and 50-odd weapons, was helped by the Maharashtra Chief Minister.

Venugopal's background in tribal and rural law. This includes knowledge of the PESA Act. Community Forest Rights Act, MNREGS, and Biodiversity Act, makes him an ideal candidate for the role.

He acknowledges the irony of using legal means to address issues that the Maoists once rallied against. Such as the PESA Act in certain areas and the Forest Rights Act.

Sanjay Meena, the former Gadchiroli Collector, explains that the Ekal Centre was conceived to bridge the trust and communication gap between gram sabhas and the district administration. Gondwana University was brought on board to provide training to gram sabha members on topics like community forest rights. Biodiversity registers, and forest and water conservation.

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Since December 2022, the Ekal Centre has trained approximately 3,500 individuals from 600 gram sabhas, helped 232 complete forest management plans, and enabled over 100 individuals to secure community forest rights.

Venugopal has expressed satisfaction with several aspects of Maharashtra's surrender and rehabilitation policy. Citing financial assistance, administrative support, and help with acquiring land and basic documents as key components.

He recalls that some had called him a "traitor" when he surrendered, but he believes that his decision has been vindicated by the progress made in the past year.

Despite his busy schedule, Venugopal still prioritizes his personal life, waking up early for exercise and spending evenings speaking with surrendered cadres and their families, as well as following up on rehabilitation issues.

He often visits his native place in Telangana. There, he meets with family members and engages in activities similar to those of an ordinary couple.

As a temporary university employee earning roughly Rs 30,000 per month, Venugopal is aware that his job is not secure and is taking steps to further his education, enrolling in a BA course through Dr B R Ambedkar Open University in Telangana.

He believes that the current political landscape. With young people playing a significant role in shaping social movements, presents an opportunity for growth and learning. His perspective highlights the need for a unified approach to addressing public concerns.

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Reflecting on his journey, Venugopal notes that the transition from a life of activism to a role in academia is not a departure from his values. However, rather an evolution towards a new set of challenges and opportunities.

With his unique blend of experience and knowledge, Venugopal is poised to make a positive impact at Gondwana University's Ekal Centre. There, he will work to promote community development and social change.

The Ekal Centre's efforts to engage with gram sabhas and promote community forest rights have shown promising results. With a significant increase in trained individuals and completed forest management plans.

As the university and district administration continue to work together, Venugopal's role will be vital in facilitating this collaboration and promoting sustainable development in rural areas.

The future of the Ekal Centre and its impact on rural communities will depend on the continued efforts of individuals like Venugopal. Who are committed to making a difference through education and community engagement.