In 1967, a faction of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) led by Charu Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal, and Jangal Santhal, known as the "Siliguri group," initiated a protracted people's war with the vision of establishing a communist state in India. Despite nearly six decades of struggle under the banner of Naxalite-Maoist Insurgency, or Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), their goal remains a distant dream. Although their ambitions have not materialized, these extremists continue to keep the government on edge with periodic violent outbursts, resulting in the death of thousands of civilians, security personnel, and Maoist cadres alike.

From 2000 to 2024, over 5,500 incidents of Naxalite violence have claimed 4,070 civilian lives, 2,689 security forces, and 4,515 Maoist casualties. Additionally, the Naxalites have disrupted developmental work and hindered the implementation of welfare schemes, particularly in tribal areas under their control.
However, this struggle is not without hope. The intensified actions by the security forces, coupled with an effective rehabilitation package offered by central and state governments, have made significant strides in eroding Naxalite influence. In 2024 alone, 287 Naxalites were killed, 952 were arrested, and 837 surrendered (TOI, 16.12.2024). These results, while commendable, remind us that the battle is far from over. The government’s efforts, though laudable, face the persistent threat of resurgence, as seen during previous phases of Naxalite activity. Despite the visible success in curbing the insurgency, the threat remains.
It’s essential to recognize that simply eliminating Naxalites will not resolve the problem. The Naxalite insurgency thrives on the neglect and exploitation of the people in affected areas—often tribal communities, who have long been denied the fruits of development. These individuals were once lured by Naxalite promises of a better future, but have since become victims of exploitation by both the bureaucracy and the insurgents. This double burden requires a compassionate and multifaceted response.
The present government is addressing the LWE problem with both an iron fist and a reformative approach. On one hand, the government is engaged in robust counterinsurgency efforts, on the other, it is working to uplift and rehabilitate those who choose to lay down arms. Despite lucrative rehabilitation packages, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand are still facing certain road-blocks. The Govt. has, recently given a serious blow to LWE by setting up a security camp in the den of Bastar’s dreaded Maoist leader Madvi Hidma of PLGA. With this camp the security network has been strength in Bastar area since 25 such camps had already been established. Speaking during the Bastar Olympics, the Union Home Minister assured the people of many more job-oriented and welfare projects to Naxal-infested areas. Today, when the extremists are facing the heat of massive coercive action from the security forces, it is the right time for Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand to implement the projects launched with the help of central Govt. with full force of their respective states.To expedite the process of eliminating Left-Wing Extremism, a few key measures must be prioritized:

Re-orienting Bureaucracy

Lower and middle-level bureaucrats must focus on tackling economic exploitation, eradicating poverty, and eliminating the social marginalization of Dalits and Adivasis, especially in remote forest areas.

Coercive Yet Development-Oriented Approach

While security forces have made significant headway in neutralizing the Naxalite threat, state governments must complement these efforts with development programs, governance improvements, and redistributive policies. Such initiatives would directly impact the affected populations, gaining their trust and support. Andhra Pradesh’s model of combining "carrot and stick" has been widely successful and should be adopted by other states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Orissa, despite certain roadblocks.

Safeguarding Surrendered Naxalites

As the security forces intensify operations against Naxalites, it is crucial to ensure the safety of those who surrender. If surrendered individuals are harmed, it would undermine the progress made by the security forces and the government’s rehabilitation efforts.
Economic Opportunities for Remote Areas
Setting up small-scale industries in Naxal-affected areas, with strong security measures in place, would provide employment opportunities for locals. In parallel, showcasing success stories of former insurgents who have turned their lives around by starting small businesses would inspire others to follow suit.

Land Reforms

Land reforms have been a key factor in addressing the LWE issue in Andhra Pradesh. Similar reforms should be expedited in other affected states, as they would significantly reduce the support base of the insurgents.

Empowering Local Politicians

Local politicians, especially those with strong ties to the affected communities, must be protected to freely engage with the Adivasis and Dalits. These leaders, familiar with local realities, can play a crucial role in convincing people to abandon violence and embrace mainstream society.
In conclusion, while the government’s recent anti-Naxalite operations have yielded promising results, it is equally crucial for affected states to implement reformative measures with the same vigor. By combining military action with sustainable development and social reforms, the states will regain the trust and confidence of their people, paving the way for a lasting peace in these turbulent regions. The fight against Left-Wing Extremism is far from over, but the time to act is now.

Email:----------------pratapsgh2005@yahoo.co.in