Naxalism (Left-Wing Extremism)

Introduction

Naxal Movement is a form of Left Wing Extremism. It developed as an armed struggle based on demands such as social equality, land rights, and poverty eradication.

Origin

1967 – Naxalbari village, West Bengal
Farmers launched an armed struggle against the feudal land system
This came to be known as the “Naxal Movement”

Expansion

It later spread to several states:
Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
These regions are known as the “Red Corridor”

Major Attacks

2010 – Dantewada attack
76 CRPF personnel were killed

2013 – Jhiram Ghati attack
27 people (including politicians) were killed

Thus, Naxalism became a major internal security threat

Government Measures (After 2014)

The central government adopted a two-pronged approach

1. Security Measures
Elimination of Naxal leaders
Increase in security force operations
Inter-state coordination

2. Development Measures
Basic infrastructure such as roads, banking, and communication
Education (Eklavya schools)
Employment & social development

Key Statistics

Reduction in Area
2014 → 18,000 sq. km
2024 → 4,200 sq. km
2025 → Very minimal

Reduction in Attacks
2010 → 1,936 incidents
2024 → 374 (≈ 81% reduction)

Reduction in Deaths
2010 → 1005
2024 → 150 (≈ 85% reduction)

Districts Affected
126 → 90 → 70 → 38 (2024)

Reasons for Success

Integration of Security + Development
Intelligence coordination
Surrender policies
Improvement in basic infrastructure

Recent Target

Target to eliminate Naxalism by March 31, 2026
The central government has announced achievement of this goal

Example (Real-life Understanding)

If an area lacks roads, schools, and jobs, people become dissatisfied
Naxals exploit this dissatisfaction to gain support
Therefore, Development + Security = Sustainable solution

Summary (Key Points)

1967 Naxalbari → Origin
“Red Corridor” → Area of spread
Strong measures after 2014
Attacks, deaths, and area → Significant reduction
Security + Development = Key to success