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.