Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 17/02/2025

Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) continues to pose a significant internal security challenge in India, despite efforts to curb it. Discuss the major causes of LWE, the government’s strategy to counter it, and the way forward for ensuring long-term peace in affected regions.

Model Answer

Introduction

Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), commonly known as Maoism or Naxalism, is one of India’s biggest internal security threats. It primarily affects central and eastern India, forming the ‘Red Corridor’ across Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and Maharashtra. Despite significant security and development efforts, Maoist activities continue to disrupt governance, economic progress, and internal stability.

Major Causes of Left-Wing Extremism in India

Economic Disparities & Tribal Alienation
- Widespread poverty, landlessness, and lack of basic amenities fuel resentment.
- Tribal communities face displacement due to mining, infrastructure, and deforestation.
Weak Governance & Administrative Vacuums
- Poor implementation of welfare schemes and lack of government presence in remote areas.
- Corruption in local administration leads to mistrust among the rural population.
Exploitation of Natural Resources
- Maoists capitalize on conflicts over land rights and environmental degradation.
- Illegal mining & deforestation drive rural grievances, which extremists exploit.
Ineffective Law Enforcement & Intelligence Gaps
- Difficult forest terrain provides Maoists with safe havens.
- Limited coordination between central and state security agencies hampers counter-insurgency efforts.

Government’s Strategy to Counter LWE

SAMADHAN Doctrine(Smart Policing, Aggressive Action, Development Initiatives)
- Focuses on strong security presence and socio-economic development in LWE areas.
Operation Greyhound & Cobra Commandos
- Specialized forces trained for jungle warfare to neutralize Maoist hideouts.
Development & Rehabilitation Efforts
- Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) prioritizes LWE-affected regions.
- Skill training, rural employment (MGNREGA), and road construction improve connectivity and employment.
Community Policing & Surrender Policies
- Encouraging Maoists to surrender with job opportunities and financial support.
- Empowering local governance (Panchayati Raj Institutions) to reduce extremist influence.

Challenges in Tackling LWE

🚧 Lack of Trust in Government Policies – Tribal communities often view government initiatives with suspicion.
🚧 Continued Maoist Influence in Forested Areas – Dense forests make military operations difficult.
🚧 Inadequate Socio-Economic Reforms – Development programs often fail to reach affected populations due to corruption.

Way Forward

✅ Strengthening Security & Intelligence Networks – Use AI-based surveillance, drones, and cyber-intelligence.
✅ Faster Infrastructure Development – Improve roads, schools, and healthcare in Maoist strongholds.
✅ Tribal Welfare & Land Reforms – Implement transparent land rights policies to prevent displacement.
✅ Rehabilitation & Reintegration of Ex-Maoists – Provide education, employment, and livelihood opportunities.

Conclusion LWE is not just a law and order issue but a socio-economic challenge. A balanced approach combining strong security measures, inclusive development, and tribal empowerment is necessary for long-term peace in Maoist-affected regions. By addressing root causes like poverty, governance failure, and land disputes, India can permanently weaken Left-Wing Extremism and ensure internal stability.

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