Naxalism in India
GS-3 Mains (Security)
Short Notes or Revision Notes
Question : Explain the concept of Naxalism and its origins in India. And Examine the threats posed by Naxalism to India’s internal security and socio-economic development.
What is Naxalism?
- Naxalism, also known as Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), is a major internal security challenge in India.
- Naxalites (or Maoists) aim to overthrow the government through violent means.
- They are concentrated in a region known as the “Red Corridor” across several states.
Origins:
- Started in 1967 with a tribal-peasant uprising against landlords in Naxalbari village, West Bengal.
- Led by figures like Charu Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal, and Jangal Santhal.
- Merged into the Communist Party of India (Maoist) by 2008, becoming the umbrella organization for Naxalite groups.
- Declared a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Presence:
- Severely affected: Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar.
- Partially affected: West Bengal, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh.
- Slightly affected: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh.
- Emerging presence: Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh.
Causes of Naxalism:
- Marginalization of Adivasis (tribals), Dalits, and other disadvantaged communities.
- Lack of land reforms and economic development in affected areas.
- Tribal resentment over restrictions on forest access due to various acts and orders.
- Absence of basic necessities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Threats Posed by Naxalism:
- Vulnerability to external threats due to potential links with insurgent groups.
- Hinders economic development in affected regions.
- Increases government expenditure on internal security.
- Weakens governance and service delivery in Naxal-dominated areas.
Government Initiatives:
- Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to assist state police.
- Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme for funding security operations and rehabilitation programs.
- Improved intelligence gathering through Multi-Agency Centres (MACs).
- Better inter-state coordination among affected states.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to tackle Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
- Increased air support with UAVs and helicopters.
The Way Forward:
- Requires a combined approach of development and security measures.
- Address root causes like poverty and marginalization.
- Re-establish government control in Naxal-affected areas.
- Focus on development projects and improving living standards for affected communities.
Recent Successes:
- LWE violence has significantly declined in recent years due to government efforts.