Bejjeri Sammakka, Wife Of Maoist Leader Haribhushan, Dies Of COVID-19

Bejjeri Sammakka, Maoist member in Telangana who operated under the alias Sharada, has died of COVID-19, reports said Saturday. Her death follows that of her husband, senior Maoist leader Yapa Narayana alias Haribhushan who also succumbed to health complications post COVID-19.

Relatives of the couple have reportedly confirmed the deaths.

As per local reports, Haribhushan died on June 21 and Sammakka, three days later. Their final rites were reportedly performed by party members amidst villagers.

Police officials in the district have lambasted the outlawed party for lack of medical treatment provisions, saying it is a violation of human rights that cadres wanting to leave cannot. As COVID-19 infections in Maoist camps grow, officials have appealed to Maoist leaders to surrender and avail better health infra.

Who Was Bejjeri Sammakka?

Hailing from the Mahabubabad district in Telangana, Sammakka was a prominent fighter of the ultra-left movement and commander of the Charla-Shabari area, with Haribhushan leading the Telangana State Committee of the CPI (Maoist).

He joined the party in 1995 and was wanted in a number of cases. As per The Hindu, Maoist spokesperson Jagan confirmed the death of Haribhushan earlier this week, along with that of party member Siddaboina Sarakka. Sammakka's death is yet to be confirmed by the rebels.

Haribhushan's death is being termed a "big setback" for Maoist operations by authorities. "Haribhushan’s death could split the unit. He was slated to join their politburo," a top official told News18. 

He was reportedly a key figure behind the Maoist attacks in Chhattisgarh in April this year.

Image: TV6 Telugu + New Indian Express