Mains Marathon 2024

Approach Give a brief introduction about Naxalism Mention how it is a socio-economic issue and what causes Naxalism Suggest measures and approach to resolve the issue of Naxalism Conclude Suitably

Introduction

Naxalism, originating from the 1967 rebellion in Naxalbari, West Bengal, reflects deep-rooted socio-economic issues rather than being merely a law and order problem. Initially a struggle for land redistribution under the leadership of Kanu Sanyal and Jagan Santhal, it has evolved into a widespread insurgency across Eastern India.

This movement, rooted in Maoist ideology, highlights profound economic inequalities and social injustices. The discontent and violence associated with Naxalism stem from systemic inequality and exclusion, which must be addressed through holistic development and inclusion efforts to resolve this enduring issue.

Body

Causes of Naxalism

Socio-Economic Factors:

• Poverty and Lack of Development: Naxalism thrives in regions with high poverty and underdevelopment.
  • Adivasi (indigenous) and Dalit (lower caste) communities often experience social exclusion and inadequate access to essential services like healthcare and education, fostering resentment and making them more receptive to Naxalite ideology.
• Land Rights Disputes: Displacement of Adivasis from their traditional lands due to mining and development projects has created a sense of injustice.
  • Naxalites exploit these disputes to present themselves as champions of the marginalized, furthering their cause.
• Exploitation by Powerful Entities: Tribal communities are frequently exploited by landlords, moneylenders, and mining companies.
  • Naxalites position themselves as protectors against this exploitation, gaining support from those affected.
• Caste Discrimination: Dalits, who face systemic social and economic marginalization, may be drawn to Naxalism as it challenges the prevailing caste hierarchy and promises a more equitable social order.

Political Factors:

• Weak Governance and Lack of Infrastructure: Naxalism is prevalent in areas with weak government presence and inadequate infrastructure, such as poor roads and communication networks. This allows Naxalites to operate with relative ease and minimal interference.
• No Follow-Up from Administration: Even when security forces gain control of a region, the lack of subsequent administrative follow-up and provision of essential services contribute to persistent grievances among the population.
• Lack of Coordination between Centre and State Governments: There is often a disconnect between central and state governments, with state governments sometimes perceiving Naxalism as primarily a central issue and failing to take proactive measures.
• Disillusionment with Democracy: Naxalites exploit the perception that the democratic system has failed to address their needs and grievances, offering an alternative, though violent, path to change.

Additional Factors:

• Globalization: The negative impacts of globalization, particularly displacement caused by land acquisition for corporate interests, have contributed to discontent and increased support for Naxalism.
• Geographic and Operational Challenges: Naxalite groups operate in remote, dense forests, and hilly terrains, where inadequate infrastructure makes it difficult for security forces to track and combat them effectively.
• Confusion Over Handling: There is often confusion in addressing Naxalism, with debates on whether it should be tackled primarily as a social issue or a security threat. This can lead to fragmented and ineffective responses.

Holistic Resolution of Naxalism in India

• Initiate Dialogue: Establish a formal dialogue between the government and Naxalites.
  • Negotiate favorable terms to address grievances and create an environment for peaceful resolution, leveraging the current decline in contemporary weaponry and reduced betrayal incidents.
• Economic and Political Incentives: Enhance economic and political security for tribal communities by investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
  • Offering alternatives to Naxalite support through improved socio-economic conditions can weaken their base.
• Locally-Guided Monitoring: Implement community-based monitoring of Naxalite activities, taking advantage of local knowledge about seasonal patterns and geographic limitations.
  • Modernize and refine past approaches like Salwa Judum to ensure effective local participation without adverse outcomes.
• Multi-Dimensional Approach: Adopt a comprehensive strategy that combines socio-economic development, dialogue, and targeted military action.
  • Focus national resources on addressing the root causes of Naxalism through improved services and infrastructure while maintaining a balanced use of force.
    • SAMADHAN strategy is a comprehensive approach by the Indian government to combat left-wing extremism, focusing on Smart leadership, Aggressive strategy, Motivation and training, Actionable intelligence, Dashboard-based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), Harnessing technology, Action plan for each district, and No access to financing.
• Strengthen Federal Cooperation: Improve coordination between central and state governments to ensure a coherent national strategy.
  • Both levels of government should work together to mobilize resources, share intelligence, and implement development programs to effectively combat Naxalism.

Conclusion

To address Naxalism effectively, India must embrace a holistic strategy that integrates socio-economic development, meaningful dialogue, and targeted security measures. By addressing systemic inequalities and fostering inclusive governance, the government can create lasting peace and stability. This multi-dimensional approach will be essential for transforming discontent into constructive participation and reducing the appeal of insurgent ideologies.