NAXALISM IN INDIA

 1. Introduction

Naxalism is one of the major internal security challenges in India. It refers to an armed movement that aims to overthrow the existing government system through violent revolution. The movement is based on Maoist ideology, which believes in achieving equality through armed struggle rather than democratic means.The term “Naxalism” comes from a small village called Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, where the movement first began in 1967.

2. Origin of Naxalism

The Naxalite movement began when a group of peasants, led by Chiru Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal, and Jangle Santhal, revolted against the landlords in Naxalbari village.

Their demand was redistribution of land to poor farmers who were being exploited by landlords.

The ideology was inspired by Mao Zedong’s (China) communist principles, which supported a “people’s war” to capture political power through armed revolution. Over time, several radical leftist groups across India adopted this ideology.

3. Causes of Naxalism

Several factors contributed to the growth of Naxalism in India:

a) Economic Inequality:

Poor distribution of land and wealth, especially in tribal and rural areas, created resentment.

b) Exploitation of Tribals:

Tribal communities (Adivasis) were deprived of their traditional land rights and natural resources.

c) Unemployment and Poverty:

Lack of jobs and development in rural areas made youth vulnerable to Naxal influence.

d) Government Neglect:

Absence of basic facilities like roads, education, and healthcare in remote regions alienated people.

e) Corruption:

Corruption in local governance and misuse of funds reduced trust in democratic systems.

4. Spread of Naxalism

After its beginning in West Bengal, Naxalism spread to Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.

These regions form what is known as the “Red Corridor” — an area heavily affected by Maoist activities.

The main Naxalite organization today is the CPI (Maoist) — Communist Party of India (Maoist) — formed in 2004 after merging two major groups: People’s War Group (PWG) and Maoist Communist Centre (MCC).

5. Activities and Impact

Naxalites carry out various violent acts such as:

Attacks on police, government officials, and infrastructure.

Destruction of roads, schools, and communication networks.

Kidnapping and extortion for funds.

The impact includes:

Loss of lives (both civilians and security forces).

Slow development in affected regions.

Fear and displacement among local populations.

Increased military spending and pressure on law enforcement.

6. Government Response

The Government of India has adopted a two-pronged strategy:

Security Measures: Deployment of paramilitary forces like CRPF, Greyhounds, and COBRA units for anti-Naxal operations.

Developmental Measures: Launching schemes to improve roads, schools, jobs, and basic services in affected areas.

Some key initiatives include:

Integrated Action Plan (IAP) for development in tribal and backward areas.

SAMADHAN Doctrine — a comprehensive strategy focusing on intelligence, modernization, and development.

7. Present Situation

In recent years, Naxalism has declined significantly due to continuous government efforts.

According to official data, Naxal-related violence has dropped, and their presence is now limited to parts of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha.

However, the root causes — poverty, inequality, and lack of governance — still remain in some areas, meaning the issue hasn’t been fully eradicated.

8. Conclusion

Naxalism is not merely a law-and-order issue but also a socio-economic problem.

To eliminate it completely, India must focus on inclusive development, education, employment, and justice for the marginalized communities.

True peace can only come when people in these regions feel that they are part of India’s progress and democracy.

                                                                 THANK YOU 

Written and searched by ---

                     Anand Sonawale

Edited by ----

                       Raj Sonawale