Chhattisgarh’s Maoist Conflict

Security forces in Chhattisgarh killed 12 alleged Maoists from Battalion No. 1 of the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA). This operation in Bijapur is part of ongoing efforts to combat the Maoist insurgency. Since 2024, security forces have intensified their operations, forcing the PLGA into a defensive position. Despite recent setbacks, the PLGA, particularly Battalion No. 1, remains threat in the Bijapur and Sukma jungles. The Government of India aims to end the Maoist rebellion by March 2026.

Organisation of the PLGA

The PLGA was established on December 2, 2000. It operates with a three-tier pyramid structure. At the top is the main force, followed by a secondary force, and the largest base force. The base force comprises militia members who gather intelligence. The secondary force includes armed Local Guerilla Squads and platoons. Battalion No. 1, the top tier, consists of three companies and operates under strict command.

Leadership Hierarchy

The PLGA’s leadership includes central military commanders and zonal commanders. The key figure is General Secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, alias Basavaraj, who has a bounty on his head. Other notable leaders include Thippiri Tirupathi, Hidma Madvi, and Barse Deva. Their roles range from overseeing military operations to managing political strategies.

Recent Attacks and Threat Assessment

Battalion No. 1 has been involved in six major attacks in Sukma and Bijapur, resulting in the deaths of 155 security personnel. Notable incidents include the 2010 Tadmetla encounter and the 2021 Pedadagelur attack. Despite losses, Battalion No. 1 remains operational, albeit weakened, with many companies reduced to platoon strength.

Current Potency of Battalion No. 1

As of 2025, increased police presence and new camps have forced Battalion No. 1 to split into two groups. However, it is still equipped with 50-100 weapons, including AK-47s and improvised explosives. The battalion is believed to include at least six snipers, maintaining its capability to inflict casualties on security forces.

Strength of Other PLGA Units

The Dandakaranya Special Zone comprises nine divisions, each with varying strength. Most companies have weakened over time, with some dissolved after losses. The Central Regional Company operates along the Telangana-Dandakaranya border. The PLGA’s annual Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign aims to regroup and target security forces during specific periods.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of Maoist insurgency on the socio-economic development in Chhattisgarh.
2. Estimate the effectiveness of government strategies in countering Maoist activities since 2024.
3. What is the significance of the three-tier structure of the PLGA? How does it aid in their operational effectiveness?
4. With suitable examples, discuss the historical context of Maoist movements in India and their evolution over the years.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of Maoist insurgency on the socio-economic development in Chhattisgarh.

1. Disruption of infrastructure development due to frequent attacks on construction projects and security forces.
2. Impact on agriculture and local economies, as farmers face threats and extortion from Maoists.
3. Displacement of communities due to violence, leading to loss of livelihoods and social cohesion.
4. Government spending diverted towards security measures instead of development programs.
5. Increased poverty and unemployment rates in affected regions, hindering overall economic growth.

2. Estimate the effectiveness of government strategies in countering Maoist activities since 2024.

1. Increased deployment of security forces leading to operations against Maoists, including the recent Bijapur encounter.
2. Establishment of new police camps to enhance security presence in conflict zones.
3. Implementation of development initiatives aimed at addressing root causes of insurgency, such as poverty and lack of education.
4. Collaboration with local communities to build trust and reduce support for Maoist activities.
5. Challenges remain due to the adaptive nature of Maoist tactics and ongoing violence in remote areas.

3. What is the significance of the three-tier structure of the PLGA? How does it aid in their operational effectiveness?

1. Facilitates a clear command hierarchy, enabling effective decision-making and coordination during operations.
2. Allows for specialization, with different forces focusing on intelligence gathering, direct action, and political propaganda.
3. Base force acts as a support system, providing intelligence and local knowledge, crucial for operational success.
4. Flexibility in deployment, as companies can operate independently or in coordination based on strategic needs.
5. Enhances resilience, allowing the organization to absorb losses and continue functioning despite setbacks.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the historical context of Maoist movements in India and their evolution over the years.

1. The Naxalite movement began in the late 1960s, inspired by Maoist ideology, focusing on land reforms and rights for the rural poor.
2. Formation of the CPI (Maoist) in 2004, merging various factions and strengthening the movement’s organizational structure.
3. Significant incidents, such as the 2010 Tadmetla attack, highlight the violent escalation and state response over the years.
4. The movement has evolved from rural-based uprisings to a more organized insurgency with a complex structure and tactics.
5. Recent developments show a shift towards urban areas and increased recruitment, indicating the movement’s adaptability.