Chhattisgarh's Crackdown on Maoist Insurgency

Why in news?

Chhattisgarh has intensified its crackdown on Maoist insurgents since December 2023, resulting in many arrests and surrenders.

What is Maoism?

It is a form of communism developed by Mao Tse Tung.
It is a doctrine to capture State power through armed insurgency, mass mobilization, and strategic alliances.
The Maoists also use propaganda and disinformation against State institutions.
Mao called this process the 'Protracted People's War,' focusing on the 'military line' to capture power.
Prioritizes rural agrarian communities as the primary revolutionary force.

What are the Most Affected Regions?

Decline of Maoist Influence - in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar, where they once had influence.
Reduction in Affected Areas - have decreased from 220 (early 2000s) to less than 40 (as per Ministry of Home Affairs reports).
Violence is now concentrated in a few pockets of Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra.

What are the Challenges in Dealing with Maoism?

Security Challenges - Entrenched Insurgency - Maoists control remote tribal regions, creating a security vacuum and running parallel governance systems.
Violence & Intimidation - Maoist cadres use terror tactics to suppress local resistance and hinder governance.
Socio-Economic Challenges - Underdevelopment - Lack of roads, healthcare, and education fuels discontent, which Maoists exploit.
Tribal Displacement- Infrastructure projects cause displacement, providing Maoists with easy recruits.
Administrative Challenges - Governance Vacuum - Weak state presence allows Maoists to dominate and control local administration.
Coordination Issues - Differences between central and state agencies hinder counter-insurgency efforts.
Ideological & Perception Challenges - Public Sympathy - Some intellectuals and activists support Maoist ideology, complicating efforts to counter extremism.
Human Rights Concerns - Aggressive security actions risk civilian casualties, fueling further alienation.

What are Legal Framework to Deal with Maoism?

Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967

Objective- Prevent unlawful activities that threaten India's sovereignty.
Key Provisions - Unlawful Associations- Govt. can ban organizations disrupting national integrity.
Terrorist Organizations- CPI (Maoist) designated as a terrorist outfit (2009).
Strict Penalties- Criminalizes membership, support, and fundraising for such groups.
Extended Detention- Allows detention without charge for up to 180 days.

Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958

Objectives- Empower armed forces to maintain public order in disturbed areas.
Key Provisions - Disturbed Areas- Govt. can declare regions as disturbed under AFSPA.
Special Powers- Armed forces can use force, arrest without a warrant, and conduct searches.
Legal Immunity- Protection from prosecution without central govt. approval.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008

Objective- Establish NIA as India's central counter-terrorism agency.
Key Provisions - NIA Formation- Investigates offenses related to national security.
Scheduled Offenses- Covers laws like UAPA, Atomic Energy Act, etc.
Concurrent Jurisdiction- NIA can take over state police cases with central approval.

Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996

Objective - Strengthen self-governance in tribal regions.
Key Provisions - Empowers Gram Sabhas - Control over natural resources and local disputes.
Consultation on Land Issues - Required before land acquisition in Scheduled Areas.
Local Governance -Enhances tribal autonomy over development programs.

What are Steps Taken by the Indian Government to Counter Maoism?

Security Measures

Operation SAMADHAN - A focused counter-insurgency strategy integrating intelligence, modern technology, and security forces.
Deployment of CAPFs -Increased presence of CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and state police in affected areas.
Special Forces - Formation of elite anti-Maoist units like Greyhounds (Telangana), CoBRA (CRPF), and STF (various states).
Unified Command - Coordination between state and central forces for joint operations.

Development Initiatives

Road Connectivity Project for LWE Areas- Focuses on constructing roads in Maoist-affected districts.
Skill Development Schemes - Programs like ROSHNI and Skill Development Scheme in 47 LWE districts to provide employment.
Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) - Set up for tribal children to improve education access.
Special Central Assistance (SCA) - Additional funding for LWE-affected districts for infrastructure and welfare projects.

What are the Rehabilitation and Surrender Policies?

Surrender and Rehabilitation Scheme - Financial assistance, vocational training, and housing support for surrendered Maoists.
Relief for Affected Families - Compensation for civilians and security personnel affected by Maoist violence.

What Lies ahead?

Dealing with Naxalism in India needs a balanced strategy. Focus on both security measures and root causes like poverty.
Improve infrastructure, education, and job opportunities in affected areas. Engage in open dialogue with local populations to strengthen ties.
Combining security efforts with socio-economic development and community engagement can help India effectively address Naxalism and create a safer future.

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Refer to - Indian Express| MAOIST