India Today reports that top Maoist commander Madvi Hidma was killed in a security operation in Andhra Pradesh. Once a rising tribal guerrilla leader, Hidma led the most feared wing of the Maoists — Battalion No. 1 — notorious for its tactical strength. He orchestrated more than two dozen attacks on security forces, making him one of the insurgency’s deadliest tacticians.

Hidma’s death deals a symbolic and operational blow. With his exit, a major leadership vacuum emerges — the experienced fighters are dying, old leaders are incapacitated, and others remain inactive. Sources say Barse Deva, Hidma’s associate, is now in command, but the unity and strength of the Maoist structure are fraying.

Experts suggest this could mark a decisive turning point in the decades-long insurgency. Ongoing surrenders, weakening networks, and sustained counter-insurgency pressure hint that the once-formidable Maoist movement may be nearing its twilight.