Mains Marathon

Approach:

• Briefly introduce LWE as both a security and socio-economic challenge.
• Mention its geographical spread, origin, and ideological underpinnings.
• Analyze the achievements and limitations of a militarized response.
• Conclude with a suitable way forward.

Introduction:

Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), often described as “the single biggest internal security threat,” reflects deep socio-economic disparities, tribal alienation, and governance deficits. While security operations have curbed violence, addressing LWE solely through militarized means cannot defeat the ideology behind it.

Body :

Origin and Spread of Left-Wing Extremism in India :

• Emerging from the Naxalbari uprising of 1967, LWE has been fueled by Maoist ideology advocating armed struggle against the perceived exploitation of marginalized communities.
• The “Red Corridor,” spanning Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and parts of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, has witnessed both security-centric measures and developmental interventions.

Achievements of Militarized Response

• Improved Security Situation: LWE-affected districts have reduced from 223 in 2010 to 70 in 2023, with incidents declining by over 70% (MHA data).
• Successful Operations: Greyhounds (AP/Telangana) and COBRA battalions have neutralized key Maoist leaders and organizational networks.
• Enhanced Infrastructure: Security domination enabled projects like LWE Road Connectivity, 4G mobile towers, and banking facilities in remote areas.
• Leadership Decapitation: Targeted operations have led to mass surrenders of cadres and a weakening of Maoist leadership.

Limitations of the Militarized Approach

• Ideological Persistence: Core issues—land alienation, poverty, and tribal exploitation—remain unaddressed.
• Human Rights Concerns: Cases like Salwa Judum (disbanded by SC in 2011) highlight security excesses eroding public trust.
• Geographical Adaptability: Maoists regroup in newer, forested zones using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and guerrilla warfare.
• Alienation of Tribals: Over-militarization often alienates the very communities the state seeks to protect.

Conclusion:

A militarised response has undoubtedly shrunk LWE’s operational space; however, ideologies rooted in socio-economic grievances cannot be eradicated by force alone. India’s long-term success will hinge on SAMADHAN’s “D” (Development) being pursued with the same vigor as “S” (Smart Leadership) and “A” (Aggressive Strategy).