Hyderabad: The first-ever direct talks between naxalites and Andhra Pradesh Government commenced in Hyderabad today (Oct 15, 2004).

Top Maoist leaders of People's War and Janasakthi organisations, who are staying in a Government guest house here for the last three days as 'state guests', were escorted to Dr MCR HRD Institute in Jubilee Hills where the parleys began at 1030 hrs (IST).

The talks signal a new phase in the three decade long, blood-soaked history of naxalite movement in the State.

The State PW Secretary Ramakrishna, a school teacher turned revolutionary who once carried a reward of Rs 12 lakh on his head, the Secretary of Andhra-Orissa Border Special Zone Committee Sudhakar, member of North Telangana Special Zone Secretary Ganesh and Janasakthi leaders Amar and Riaz are participating in the talks.

The State Home Minister K Jana Reddy is leading a nine-member team, comprising ministers and Congress leaders, on behalf of the Government.

Besides, a team of mediators headed by retired IAS official S R Sankaran is also assisting in the negotiations.

A thick security blanket has been thrown around HRD Institute where talks are being held.