In 2024, security forces have killed 159 Maoist cadres during anti-Naxalite operations, marking a major blow to the left-wing extremist movement.
Security forces, including paramilitary and police, have improved coordination and adopted a no-holds-barred approach after suffering significant casualties in ambushes in April 2021 and April 2023.
The Maoists have faced continuous blows in south Chhattisgarh, one of their last strongholds, though they maintain some presence in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
Intelligence has been a critical component in successful operations, with the Maoist base of support weakening over time.
Despite the presence of grievances among tribals in under-developed, forested regions, the idea of a "protracted war" by the Maoists has found limited support.
Operation Prahar and Its Consequences:
The Chhattisgarh government’s "Operation Prahar" has led to the elimination, surrender, and arrest of Maoist cadres.
There have been reports that peaceful activists and tribals fighting for rights have also been targeted during these operations, causing concern.
Civil society organizations have complained that the crackdown on Maoists has coincided with repression against peaceful activists and tribals.
If these grievances are not addressed, it could fuel further disenchantment, which may play into the hands of the Maoists.
The Maoist/Naxalite movement has persisted for over five decades, showing its resilience, especially in areas where state governance is weak or perceived as harmful to marginalized groups.
Despite its endurance, Maoism is seen as anachronistic, with little progress toward achieving its goals.
Rather than improving the lives of tribals, the Maoist movement has primarily brought misery to the very people they claim to protect
It is urged that the Maoists realize the futility of their ideology and instead engage with India's democratic system to articulate concerns for the benefit of the tribals caught in the crossfire between insurgents and security forces.
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