In 2024, Indian security forces delivered significant blows to Maoist insurgents, with 159 Maoist cadres killed in anti-Naxalite operations. This has led to major setbacks for the Maoist movement, particularly in their stronghold of south Chhattisgarh. 

Background

• The term “Naxal” originates from Naxalbari, a village in West Bengal where the Naxalbari uprising occurred in 1967.Those engaged in the insurgency are referred to as Naxals or Naxalites, and the movement itself is known as Naxalism.

Objectives of Naxalites

• The primary goal of the Naxalites is to dismantle the existing democratic system, and replace it with a communist system. 
  • In stark contrast to the peaceful and non-violent methods advocated by Mahatma Gandhi—such as civil disobedience, non-cooperation, and peaceful protest—the Naxalites employ aggressive and violent tactics, including armed rebellion, to pursue their objectives to disrupt and overthrow the system through force and insurrection.

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Modus Operandi of Naxalites

• Naxalites often target tribal youth in forested and surrounding areas who are typically underserved by government schemes and governance.
  • The frustration of these communities with government laws, such as restrictions on forest access, creates a fertile ground for Naxal recruitment. 
  • The Naxalites exploit this discontent by inciting these individuals to take up arms against the government.

Current Status

• Though not eradicated completely, Naxalism has weakened over time. 
• The Naxalites claim to defend tribal communities, yet these very communities frequently bear the brunt of the violence and disruption caused by the conflict. 
  • Despite their promises of support, the tribals often face greater harm and displacement, highlighting a disconnect between the Naxalites’ stated goals and the actual impact of their actions.
• Tribals find themselves caught between the government and Naxalites. 
  • If they side with the government, they face retaliation from the Naxalites. 
  • If they support the Naxalites and do not provide information to the government, they risk government action against them. 
  • This situation places innocent tribals in the crossfire.
• Moreover, Naxalites actively obstruct development efforts in areas under their control. 
  • They fear that  development—such as schools, roads, and other infrastructure— can lead to better living conditions, which might diminish the grievances that fuel the Naxalite movement. 
  • It would also bring increased government presence and services, weakening the Naxalites’ influence and making it harder for them to recruit and maintain support.

Recent Developments

Major Setbacks for Maoists

• In 2024, a significant number of Maoist cadres were eliminated in security force operations, following major casualties in ambushes in April 2021 and 2023. 
• South Chhattisgarh is their strongest stronghold, and while Naxalism exists in other states, it is not as significant.
• In 2022, the number of violent incidents and deaths in Naxal-affected areas reached its lowest point in four decades. 
• Compared to the peak in 2010, incidents of violence in Naxalism-affected states decreased by 77%. 
• The number of affected districts also dropped from 90 to 45. 
• Furthermore, the deaths of security personnel and civilians due to Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) violence saw a 90% reduction, falling from 1,005 in 2010 to 98 in 2022.

Concerns Over Repression and Consequences

• While the Chhattisgarh government’s “Operation Prahar” has achieved notable successes, it has also faced criticism for coinciding with repression against activists and tribal groups. 
  • Civil society organisations worry that these harsh measures could make locals more upset and accidentally boost Maoist support.
  • The government must ensure that activists and tribal voices are not targeted, and a balance needs to be established between security needs and human rights.
• Targeting human rights activists can be counterproductive, potentially reversing the decline in Naxalite support. 
• Additionally, the Naxalites’ long history of armed struggle without significant development has led tribals to recognize the futility of their ideology, further contributing to the reduced support base.

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What the Government Should Do?

• To effectively reach remote areas where Naxalism is still present, the government should ensure the delivery of basic services such as electricity and water. 
• Measures should not unfairly target local populations. 
• It is crucial to protect the three fundamental aspects for tribals: water (jal), forest (jangal), and land (jameen). 
  • Conflicts over these resources can lead to frustration and increased influence from Naxalite ideology.

Opportunity for Mainstream Integration

• This is a critical moment for Naxalites to reassess their ideology and transition into the mainstream democratic system. 
• By engaging in active politics, they can pursue their goals through established democratic channels, offering a viable alternative to their current approach and contributing to the resolution of ongoing conflicts. 

Conclusion

Addressing the Naxalite issue requires a balanced approach that integrates robust security measures with comprehensive development strategies. By focusing on both military and development efforts, the government can effectively weaken insurgent influence while simultaneously addressing the root causes of discontent and fostering long-term stability.

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