In a notable development, starting from 2022, India is now keeping separate records for incidents associated with Left Wing Extremism (LWE). The activity has emerged as a key security challenge for the country over many decades, especially in areas impacted by civil strife and military conflicts. LWE, also known as left-wing terrorism or radical left-wing movements, represents political ideologies and groups advocating substantial societal and political modifications through revolutionary routes. These groups often target government institutions, law enforcement agencies, or private property to propagate their agenda.
LWE’s trace in India goes back to a rebellion in Naxalbari, West Bengal, in 1967. As per the Union Home Ministry, there has been a significant decrease in LWE-linked violence, which lessened by 76% in 2022 compared to 2010 data. Additionally, it’s geographical reach has contracted, as only 46 districts reported such violence in 2021, opposed to 96 districts in 2010.
Factors Fuelling LWE
The D Bandopadhyay Committee of 2006 pointed towards governance deficits and rampant discrimination against tribals in economic, socio-political, and cultural spheres as main reasons behind the propagation of Naxalism. India’s existing socio-economic disparities with large populace living in poverty, grappling with unemployment, and limited access to basic amenities, have been exploited and used by extremist groups to gain support among marginalized sections of society.
Another concern aggravating the situation has been the issue of land rights and displacement. The establishment of development projects and industrial acquisitions has oftentimes resulted in displacement of local communities without adequate compensation or rehabilitation, leading to agitation and unrest.
Defending Adivasi Rights and Encouraging Government Initiatives
Adivasi rights have often been the center of LWE’s advocacy. India shelters a significant number of Adivasis, indigenous communities with unique cultures and traditions, who have experienced exploitation of their resources and displacement from their native lands.
However, government initiatives such as the National Policy and Action Plan to address Left Wing Extremism 2015; Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015; and SAMADHAN Initiative have been launched to counteract these issues.
The Role of National Policy and Action Plan
Adopted in 2015, The National Policy and Action Plan addresses LWE through a comprehensive approach involving various aspects of governance, security, and development. It strives to enhance the capabilities of security forces to combat LWE, ensure the rights and entitlements of local communities, and focus on socio-economic development in affected regions.
Protection Under the Juvenile Justice Act
The Juvenile Justice Act, enacted in 2015, protects children affected by LWE, especially those in distress situations. For instance, children involved in illegal activities related to LWE are provided care and protection under this act. Moreover, it promises criminal prosecution for non-state militant groups or outfits recruiting or using children.
The Significance of SAMADHAN Initiative
SAMADHAN serves as an all-inclusive solution to the LWE problem, covering short-term to long-term government strategies. It focuses on smart leadership, aggressive strategy, motivation and training, actionable intelligence, harnessing technology, action plan per theatre, and restriction of financing.
Steps Towards Mitigation
Open communication between the government, security forces, and affected communities, along with the encouragement of community leaders, NGOs, and religious institutions is essential. Establishing entrepreneurship and startup incubation centers in affected regions can provide young individuals an alternate path to economic growth. Initiating sustainable development projects that involve local communities in environmental protection efforts can help reduce extremism. Furthermore, identifying and supporting individuals committed to promoting peace, along with innovative financial mechanisms like social impact bonds, can help in countering extremism effectively. The challenge in managing LWE lies in reconciling the government’s drive for large industrial developments with the rights and welfare of tribal population and farmers.
