A Turning Point in Anti-Insurgency Operations

In a major breakthrough in India’s anti-Maoist campaign, CPI (Maoist) General Secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, alias Basavaraju, was killed along with 26 cadres in a security operation in Chhattisgarh. The incident marks a potential turning point in the fight against left-wing extremism (LWE), especially in strongholds like Bastar and Dantewada.

Changing Dynamics of Maoist Insurgency

• Historical Significance of Basavaraju: Basavaraju masterminded several deadly attacks, including the 2010 Dantewada massacre (76 CRPF jawans) and the 2013 Jhiram Ghati ambush (Congress leadership in Chhattisgarh). His death signals a decapitation of Maoist leadership.
• Erosion of Maoist Strongholds: Once dominant in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, LWE has retreated, with Chhattisgarh’s forested districts (Bastar, Narayanpur, Bijapur, Dantewada) emerging as the final bastions.
• Government’s Offensive Strategy: Since December 2023, the Vishnu Deo Sai-led Chhattisgarh government has intensified coordinated operations with central forces, leading to record Maoist casualties (219 in 2023) and mass surrenders (800+ Maoists).

Strategic Interventions and Reforms

• Enhanced Security Infrastructure: Establishment of security base camps in remote areas has ended the security vacuum. Better road connectivity and mobile infrastructure have improved state presence in inaccessible regions.
• Shift from Armed Civilians to Institutional Response: Earlier reliance on armed civilian militias (e.g. Salwa Judum) backfired. Current policy emphasizes professional security forces and state welfare.
• Rehabilitation of Surrendered Maoists: The state provides housing under PM Awas Yojana, vocational training, and incentivized private employment opportunities for former Maoists to reintegrate them into society.

The Way Forward – Security Plus Development

• Maintaining Security Vigilance: Despite Basavaraju’s death, LWE ideology and remnants still exist. The Centre and state must remain vigilant and avoid premature complacency.
• Strengthening the Development Agenda: Lasting peace can only come through inclusive development. Welfare measures, infrastructure, and governance reforms must continue to erode the appeal of extremism.
• Deepening Community Engagement: Empowering local tribal communities through participatory governance, forest rights implementation, and trust-building initiatives is essential to isolate extremist influence and sustain peace.

Practice Question:

Q. "With reference to the recent killing of top Maoist leaders in Chhattisgarh, evaluate the evolution of India’s counter-insurgency strategy. How can the state balance security with inclusive development to end Left-Wing Extremism?"