How Did an Urban Naxal Operative Evade Capture for 15 Years?
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Synopsis
In a landmark operation, the Maharashtra ATS has successfully apprehended Prashant Jalindar Kamble, a notorious Naxal operative known as "Laptop," who had been evading law enforcement for 15 years. His arrest marks a pivotal moment in the fight against urban extremism in India.
Key Takeaways
- Prashant Jalindar Kamble was on the run for 15 years.
- He was arrested by the Maharashtra ATS.
- Kamble was involved with the Communist Party of India (Maoist).
- His capture is a significant blow to urban Naxalism.
- The investigation is ongoing, with further implications for national security.
New Delhi, May 5 (NationPress) In a significant development, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended a Naxal operative who had been evading capture for 15 years. Prashant Jalindar Kamble, also known as "Laptop," was arrested in Pune and was wanted in connection with a 2011 case involving serious allegations under the Indian Penal Code as well as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The official communiqué from the ATS Pune Unit, released on Sunday, stated, “The accused Prashant Jalindar Kamble, alias Laptop, has been on the run since the incident in 2011. The Hon. Court had declared him absconding, prompting the issuance of a non-bailable warrant and proclamation against him.”
Kamble was taken into custody on May 3, 2025, by the Pune unit of ATS and later transferred to the Thane unit, which had been investigating the case registered under UNIT CR NO 19/2011.
After his arrest, he was presented before the Sessions Court in Mumbai, where he was remanded to police custody until May 13.
Originally from the Tadiwala Road area of Pune, Kamble had been living covertly in Khopoli under a new identity. Once a bright student and graduate from a Pune college, he was recognized for his proficiency in computer and laptop repairs, a talent that earned him the nickname "Laptop" among Naxal operatives.
In 2010, Kamble left home claiming he was heading to Mumbai for work. Weeks later, he informed his family of his affiliation with the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist), stating:
“I have joined the Naxals, I am collaborating with them in the jungles… have received weapons training and am utilizing my computer skills for their operations. There’s no turning back now.”
According to police sources, Kamble had close ties with the late Milind Teltumbde, who was a central committee member of the CPI (Maoist) and was killed in a confrontation in Gadchiroli in 2021.
Both Kamble and his associate Santosh Vasant Shelar (alias Vishwa), who is also involved with the radical cultural group Kabir Kala Manch (KKM), were radicalized by Teltumbde and his wife, Angela Sontakke, as per ATS reports.
The ATS has labeled Kamble as “a high-value target in the realm of urban Naxalism” and “a staunch adherent of Naxal ideology.” His capture marks a notable victory in the ongoing battle against left-wing extremism in Maharashtra.
Ongoing investigations are currently in progress.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the importance of this arrest in the broader context of national security. The apprehension of Kamble, a figure deeply embedded in urban Naxalism, highlights the ongoing challenges posed by left-wing extremism. This development reinforces the need for continued vigilance and effective counter-terrorism strategies to ensure the safety and stability of our nation.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Prashant Jalindar Kamble?
Prashant Jalindar Kamble, also known as 'Laptop,' is a Naxal operative who was wanted for 15 years for his involvement in extremist activities linked to the Communist Party of India (Maoist).
Why was Kamble arrested now?
Kamble was arrested by the Maharashtra ATS after being declared absconding by the court in connection with a 2011 case involving serious charges, including those under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
What does his arrest signify?
His arrest represents a significant victory in the fight against left-wing extremism in Maharashtra and highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to tackle urban Naxalism.
What was his alias, and why was he called that?
Kamble was known as 'Laptop' due to his expertise in computer and laptop repairs, which he utilized for Naxal operations.
What are the implications of his arrest?
The arrest of a high-value target like Kamble is expected to disrupt Naxal activities and may lead to further investigations into the network of urban extremism in the region.
