Left-wing extremism (LWE), has emerged as a significant challenge in India. The recent attack by Maoists in Dantewada district, Chhattisgarh, which led to the demise of ten personnel of the Chhattisgarh Police’s District Reserve Guard (DRG) and their civilian driver, broadens the perspective on this grave issue. Further, the statistical data reveals an ever increasing involvement of Chhattisgarh in Maoist-related violence over the past five years.
Understanding Left-Wing Extremism
Rooted in political ideology, Left-wing extremism advocates for radical socialist, communist, or anarchist ideologies. LWE groups are known for their use of violence and terrorism as a means to accomplish their radical agendas. In line with their opposition to capitalism, imperialism, and the established political and social order, they aim to establish a revolutionary socialist or communist state.
The LWE Landscape in Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh bears the brunt of Maoist violence, being the only state where Maoists continue to possess significant influence and ability to stage significant attacks. Over the past five years, Chhattisgarh has accounted for over one-third of all Maoist-related violence. Despite other states’ success in curbing their Maoist problem, Chhattisgarh lagged behind, subsequently becoming a concentrated zone of Maoist influence.
LWE Situation Across India
Although Maoist violence in India has declined by approximately 77% since 2010, the remaining influence continues to pose a threat. The fall in Maoist violence attributes to stronger security enforcement, infrastructural development, and weakening ideological support among younger generations.
Government Initiatives to Counter LWE
The Indian Government has implemented several initiatives such as the SAMADHAN doctrine, National Policy and Action Plan, Aspirational Districts Programme, and Operation Green Hunt in an effort to mitigate LWE. These initiatives aim to deliver a comprehensive strategic response, focusing on security, development, and ensured rights of local communities.
Challenges in Addressing LWE
The geographic spread, support from local communities, lack of development, and political backing of LWE groups pose significant challenges in addressing the issue. These compounding factors make it difficult for government and law enforcement agencies to control and eliminate left-wing extremism.
A Way Forward
To effectively address the issue of LWE, it is necessary to improve socio-economic conditions in affected areas, conduct targeted security operations, and provide rehabilitation and reintegration support to former extremists. By adopting a comprehensive approach that strikes a balance between ensuring security and promoting development, it is possible to gradually dismantle the influence of left-wing extremism.
An Exam Question for Further Reflection
A previous year’s examination question from UPSC Civil Services Examination highlights this issue: “The persisting drives of the government for the development of large industries in backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and the farmers who face multiple displacements. With Malkangiri and Naxalbari foci, discuss the corrective strategies needed to win the Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) doctrine that affected citizens back into the mainstream of social and economic growth.” This question invites further reflection and understanding of the complex issue related to Left-Wing Extremism in India.
