Picture Credit: PTI (File Photo)
India is approaching a historic milestone, with government officials indicating that the country could be free from Naxalism by 2026.
After decades marked by violence, fear and stalled development, a coordinated blend of firm security action, targeted welfare interventions, and rehabilitation initiatives has transformed the landscape of left-wing extremism.
The Naxalite movement emerged in the 1970s in Naxalbari, West Bengal, under leaders such as Charu Mazumdar and Kanu Sanyal.
What began as a local uprising against oppression gradually developed into a nationwide insurgency, challenging India’s democratic institutions.
Despite the death of key leaders, the movement persisted through splinter factions. Inconsistencies in political will and fluctuating strategies allowed extremism to spread.
By 2010, deadly attacks, including the massacre of 76 CRPF personnel in Dantewada, exposed the scale of the crisis.
A Decade of Limited Impact
During the 2000s, development funds were allocated to Naxal-affected regions, yet outcomes were limited. By 2009, left-wing extremism had spread to 20 states and 223 districts.
Attacks on public institutions and civilians surged, culminating in incidents like the 2013 Darbha Valley ambush targeting senior political leaders.
Initiatives such as ‘Operation Green Hunt’ were launched but faltered under political resistance.
Key legislation like the PESA Act (1996), which could have empowered tribal communities, saw poor implementation, weakening efforts to reduce insurgent influence.
A more coordinated approach after 2014 marked a turning point. Combined security operations and sustained development efforts led to a significant decline in violence.
Between 2014 and 2024, violent incidents fell from 16,463 (recorded between 2004–2014) to 7,744, while casualties among security personnel and civilians sharply reduced.
In 2025 alone, security agencies eliminated 270 Naxalites, arrested 680 others and facilitated the surrender of 1,225 cadres. Operations such as ‘Black Forest’ in Chhattisgarh and Telangana neutralised several top commanders.
High-profile surrenders, including that of Mallojula Rao alias Bhupati, who carried a ₹6-crore bounty, highlighted the effectiveness of rehabilitation initiatives.
Government officials say the movement has been pushed to the brink, thanks to improved connectivity, infrastructure upgrades, welfare schemes and a credible reintegration pathway for surrendered cadres.
However, experts caution that while the insurgents’ operational strength has weakened, ideological remnants persist. Sustained vigilance and continued development efforts remain essential to prevent resurgence.
With India now closer than ever to its goal, the coming year is expected to be crucial in achieving a future free from the long shadow of Naxalism.
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