In the heart of India’s tribal regions, a persistent challenge has been the struggle against Left Wing Extremism (LWE), particularly highlighted in the recent electoral battles in Chhattisgarh. This editorial draws on insights from “Grass-root democracy as a bulwark against Maoists” to explore a novel strategy in combating extremism. The focus is on the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), which if fully realized, could transform the tribal communities’ fight against Maoist influence. By engaging tribal populations in the development process and safeguarding their rights, PESA offers a beacon of hope. This approach not only aims to mitigate the root causes of LWE but also empowers tribal communities to lead the charge in their development narrative. The essence of this strategy is to:
- Strengthen Grass-root Democracy: Enable direct participation of tribal communities in their governance.
- Protect Tribal Rights and Resources: Ensure tribal populations have control over their land and resources.
- Foster Development and Social Justice: Through inclusive planning and implementation of schemes.
This editorial endeavors to unpack the complexities of Left Wing Extremism and the promising pathway offered by PESA, advocating for its robust implementation as a critical step toward a peaceful resolution.
Relevancy for UPSC Aspirants
Understanding Left-Wing Extremism
What is Left-Wing Extremism?
Left-wing extremism, also called left-wing terrorism or radical left-wing movements, is about wanting big changes in society and politics, and being willing to use force to make those changes happen.
What do Left-Wing Extremists do?
These groups might attack government buildings, police, or private property to push their ideas.
Where is Left-Wing Extremism Seen?
In India, left-wing extremism started in 1967 in a place called Naxalbari, in West Bengal.
Where is Left-Wing Extremism Found in India?
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, there are 90 districts in 10 states where left-wing extremism is a problem. These states are Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, and West Bengal.
Which States are Most Affected?
The states most affected by left-wing extremism are Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bihar. In these places, these groups are strong and often attack security forces and regular people.
Reasons for Left Wing Extremism
1. Uneven Development:
- Many places where Left Wing Extremism (LWE) happens are very poor.
- People there struggle with things like not having enough jobs, education, food, and being left out from society.
2. Lack of Good Government:
- Places affected by LWE often don’t have good government help.
- The government there may not be strong, or it could be corrupt. This leaves room for extremist groups to take control.
3. Ideas and Beliefs:
- LWE groups say they fight for people who are treated badly by society.
- They don’t believe in the normal democratic way of doing things. Instead, they believe in using violence to make big changes.
- They follow leaders like Mao Zedong and were inspired by a big uprising in 1967.
4. Connection to Other Movements:
- Some LWE groups have connections with other extreme and separatist groups, both in India and in other countries.
5. Global Changes and Feeling Left Out:
- When globalization happens, people might feel like they’re losing their way of life.
- LWE movements give them a sense of belonging and a cause to fight for when they feel lost in the changes happening around them.
What measures has the government implemented?
Security Measures:
- Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs): Special forces like CRPF, BSF, and ITBP are sent to areas affected by LWE to help local police fight insurgents.
- Strengthening State Police: States receive support to upgrade their police forces, gather intelligence, and train officers to combat insurgents.
- Establishment of Specialized Units: Special teams like Cobra Commandos and Greyhounds are formed to specifically target Naxalite leaders and camps.
- Development Initiatives:
- Integrated Development Projects: Programs like ITDP and PMGSY focus on improving living conditions, creating jobs, and providing essential services like education and healthcare in LWE zones.
- Skill Development Programs: Youth in these areas are trained for jobs to prevent them from being lured into joining Naxalite groups.
- Promotion of Sustainable Livelihoods: Schemes like Van Dhan Vikas Kendras and MGNREGA aim to provide jobs and sustainable income for tribal communities, reducing their dependency on Naxalite activities.
- Ensuring Rights and Entitlements:
- Land Rights: Steps are taken to protect tribal lands, which are often a source of conflict and fuel Naxalite grievances.
- Forest Rights: The Forest Rights Act empowers tribal communities to manage forest resources, ensuring their rights are recognized and protected.
- Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Systems are in place to address local grievances and protect community rights, fostering a sense of justice and inclusion.
- Other Measures:
- Civic Action Program (CAP): CAPF receives funds for community projects in LWE zones, aiming to build trust and cooperation between security forces and local communities.
- Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy: LWE members who surrender are provided with training and financial support for new job opportunities, helping them reintegrate into society.
- SAMADHAN Doctrine: A comprehensive strategy focusing on smart leadership, aggressive tactics, and the use of technology to effectively address LWE issues in the short, medium, and long term.
- SMART Police: Police use data-driven method
Improving Governance in Tribal Areas
Effective PESA Act Implementation:
- Make sure the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) is followed properly. This means giving clear directions to empower gram sabhas like the Act wants.
- Fix any problems in how the Act is put into action. These problems have let Maoists take advantage, so we need to make things better and more in line with how tribal communities traditionally live.
Empowering Tribes and Their Representation:
- Help tribal leaders speak up by giving them more chances to be heard. This could mean giving them more roles in local government and politics.
- Listen to what tribal communities want and need. Then, make sure policies and plans take these things into account.
Development Programs:
- Start programs that aim to fix the social and economic problems faced by tribal communities. This could include building things like roads and schools, providing healthcare, and creating jobs.
- Make sure these programs involve local people in making decisions.
Fighting Maoist Propaganda:
- Use ways to talk back to Maoist lies and show where they’re not really helping people. We can work with local media, leaders, and others to spread the truth.
Negotiating and Solving Conflicts:
- Try to talk things out with the less extreme Maoist groups. Figure out why they’re upset and try to fix it without fighting.
- Get help from neutral people and groups to make peace.
Protecting Human Rights:
- Make sure everyone’s rights are respected, especially in places with conflict. Any actions taken should follow the rules, and we should try not to hurt innocent people.
Long-Term Plans:
- Make a big plan for the future that focuses on making life better for everyone. This plan should try to fix the big problems that cause fighting in the first place.
Conclusion
To tackle the complex problem of Left-wing Extremism (LWE), the government is taking two main approaches: boosting security measures and improving development efforts. But for us, as people aiming for the civil services exam and future roles in policymaking, it’s vital to understand that simply relying on force and development won’t completely solve these deep-rooted issues.
We need to grasp the grievances of tribal communities and respect their rights. Real progress comes from inclusive development that genuinely involves these communities. So, as we think about how to deal with LWE, we should consider the importance of empathy, open communication, and a comprehensive strategy that focuses on the well-being and hopes of tribal groups.
This perspective not only helps us prepare for civil services but also teaches us the values needed to serve our nation with care and understanding.