By What is Naxalism?
- A significant internal security challenge to India is posed by Naxalism, a form of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE).
- It is deeply rooted in socio-economic disparities, political marginalization, and historical neglect of tribal and rural populations, the Indian state is sought to be overthrown by the movement through armed struggle, inspired by Maoist ideology.
- Considerable progress in curbing the spread of Naxalism has been made by the government, particularly in the “Red Corridor,” but a holistic and inclusive approach remains essential to eliminate the threat completely.
Origin and Evolution of Naxalism in India
- The origins of Naxalism can be traced back to 1967 in Naxalbari village situated in West Bengal.
- Here, peasants revolted against exploitative landlords led by Charu Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal, and Jangal Santhal that marked the beginning of the movement.
- Over time, it expands to underdeveloped and backward regions of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
| Current Status: Naxalism was active in 233 districts across 20 states, which has been reduced to only 12 districts in 2025 that are classified as severely affected, primarily in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. |
Types of Naxalism
- Rural Naxalism: The major aim of Rural Naxalism is to overthrow the state infrastructure. It is mainly active in forested tribal areas.
- Urban Naxalism: The major aim of Urban Naxalism is to spread Maoist Ideology and infiltrate those people into cities, academia, and labor unions.
Causes of Naxalism in India
- Economic Inequality: Unequal distribution of land and resources, in tribal and rural regions, lack of employment opportunities, a deep sense of deprivation, and marginalisation push them towards radicalism.
- Tribal Alienation: Tribals have been displaced due to mining, dam construction, and industrial projects, along with the loss of their traditional rights over forest land and resources.
- Underdevelopment: Poor infrastructure, like roads, electricity, clean drinking water, schools, and healthcare facilities, continues to plague Naxal-affected areas.
- Governance Deficit: These regions suffer from administrative apathy, corruption, poor implementation of welfare schemes, bureaucratic hurdles and lack of accountability, which project them as protectors of the marginalised sections of society.
- Exploitation: Landlords, contractors, forest officials, and moneylenders often exploit vulnerable sections, especially tribals and Dalits.
- State Violence: Allegations of police excesses, including fake encounters, custodial torture, and arbitrary arrests.
Government Strategy to Counter Naxalism
Security Measures
- Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and specialised units like CoBRA and Greyhounds.
- Fortified police stations increased from 66 (2014) to 612 (2024).
- Operation Green Hunt and advanced surveillance (UAVs, GIS Mapping).
Development Initiatives
- National Policy and Action Plan, 2015: This policy combines security, development, and rights-based governance.
- Road Connectivity Project: This project ensures improved access in Left Wing Extremism-affected areas.
- Digital Bharat Nidhi (USOF Scheme): This scheme enhances mobile connectivity in the affected areas.
- Eklavya Model Residential Schools: These schools promote education among tribal youth and work for their welfare.
- ROSHNI Scheme: This scheme offers training and jobs to rural youth.
- Skill Development: PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana and ITIs in affected districts to improve the skill development
- Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP): Rapid transformation of underdeveloped districts under this programme.
Legal and Governance Reforms
- Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (1967): This Act has banned Maoist organisations.
- Forest Rights Act (2006): This Act has restored tribal rights over forest land and produce.
- PESA (1996): This Act empowered tribal Gram Sabhas in local governance.
Rehabilitation Policies
- Financial assistance, skill training, and reintegration programs for surrendered Naxals.
SAMADHAN Strategy
- S: Smart Leadership
- A: Aggressive Strategy
- M: Motivation and Training
- A: Actionable Intelligence
- D: Dashboard-based KPIs and KRAs
- H: Harnessing Technology
- A: Action Plan for each theatre
- N: No access to financing for Naxal groups
Challenges in Eradication of Naxalism in India
- Geographic Terrain: Dense forests and difficult topography aid guerrilla tactics.
- Limited Intelligence: Infiltration among locals hinders data gathering.
- Urban Maoism: Ideological expansion into cities complicates responses.
- Social Support Base: Locals’ support due to grievances and neglect.
- Human Rights Concerns: Balancing force with accountability.
Way Forward
- To ensure roads, health, and education reach the remotest areas.
- Transparent and accountable service delivery.
- To protect land rights and enable self-governance.
- Tribal youth exchange programs and civic outreach.
- To use AI, UAVs, and big data to track movements.
- To provide space for political engagement and negotiation.
Conclusion
As Karl Marx stated, “The philosophers have only interpreted the world in various ways; the point, however, is to change it.” A sustainable resolution to Naxalism in India demands a comprehensive blend of security measures, socio-economic development, legal empowerment, and inclusive governance. With strategic consistency and empathy, the goal of a Naxal-free India by 2026 appears more achievable than ever.