Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Left Wing Extremism (LWE), often referred to as the Naxal problem, continues to pose a significant internal security challenge to India, despite a demonstrable downward trend in violence. While concentrated in the ‘Red Corridor’ spanning several states, its impact extends beyond geographical boundaries. The Government of India’s approach to counter LWE is multifaceted, encompassing enhanced security measures, accelerated socio-economic development in affected regions, and efforts towards the rehabilitation and reintegration of surrendered extremists. Recent data indicates a decline in LWE-affected districts, but sustained efforts are crucial to consolidate gains and achieve lasting peace.
Government of India’s Approach to Counter LWE
The government’s strategy to counter LWE operates on three primary pillars: Security, Development, and Deradicalization/Rehabilitation.
1. Security Related Measures
- Enhanced Security Deployment: Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) like the CRPF, BSF, and ITBP are deployed in LWE-affected states to assist state police in conducting operations against extremist groups.
- Specialized Units: The CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) unit, a specialized unit of the CRPF, is trained for counter-Naxal operations in dense forests and challenging terrains.
- Intelligence Gathering: Strengthening intelligence networks to gather information on LWE activities, identify key leaders, and disrupt their operations.
- Modernization of Police Forces: Providing modern weapons, equipment, and training to state police forces operating in LWE-affected areas through schemes like the Modernization of State Police Forces (MOPF) scheme.
- Inter-State Coordination: Regular meetings and coordination between affected states to share intelligence, conduct joint operations, and address cross-border movement of extremists.
2. Development Initiatives
- Road Construction: Accelerated road construction in remote areas to improve connectivity and facilitate access to essential services. The Road Requirement Plan-I & II are key initiatives.
- Infrastructure Development: Focus on building schools, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure in LWE-affected areas.
- Livelihood Opportunities: Promoting alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities through schemes like the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
- Financial Inclusion: Expanding banking services and financial inclusion initiatives to ensure access to credit and financial assistance for local communities.
- Forest Rights Act (FRA) Implementation: Expeditious implementation of the FRA to address land rights issues and empower tribal communities.
3. Deradicalization and Rehabilitation
- Surrender Policy: Attractive surrender policies offering financial assistance, housing, and vocational training to encourage extremists to renounce violence and reintegrate into society.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Establishing rehabilitation centers to provide counseling, skill development training, and employment opportunities to surrendered extremists.
- Awareness Campaigns: Conducting awareness campaigns to counter LWE ideology and promote peace and harmony in affected areas.
- Engagement with Civil Society: Collaborating with civil society organizations and local communities to build trust and promote dialogue.
Recent Trends and Challenges
While LWE-related violence has decreased significantly, challenges remain. The shrinking geographical spread of LWE has been accompanied by a shift in tactics, with increased use of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) and targeting of infrastructure. The influence of LWE has also been observed in some urban centers. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic and economic disruptions have created new vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by extremist groups.
| Indicator | 2019 | 2023 (Provisional) |
|---|---|---|
| LWE Affected Districts | 90 | 46 |
| Incidents of LWE Violence | 833 | 565 |
(Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Annual Reports - Knowledge Cutoff: Dec 2023)
Conclusion
The Government of India’s approach to countering LWE has yielded positive results, as evidenced by the declining trend in violence and the shrinking geographical spread of extremism. However, sustaining these gains requires a continued focus on holistic development, effective security measures, and robust rehabilitation programs. Addressing the underlying socio-economic grievances of affected communities and strengthening inter-state coordination are crucial for achieving lasting peace and stability in LWE-affected regions. A nuanced and adaptive strategy, responsive to evolving challenges, will be essential for effectively tackling this complex internal security threat.
Answer Length
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