"Maoist Conundrum"

GS PAPER 3

The hindu editorial

Insurgent Activity:

The Maoist insurgency peaked in the early to mid-2000s and has settled into a pattern.
The recent killing of at least 29 Maoists in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, shows military gains by paramilitary and police forces.

Geographical Limitation:

The Maoist insurgency is limited to central India and regions with sparse tribal presence.
Maoists operate mainly in difficult hilly terrain and use guerrilla tactics.

Diminished Political-Ideological Force:

Maoists have been significantly weakened as a political-ideological force, with few supporters for their vision of an alternative state.
However, they still possess the ability to target security forces.

Security Forces' Response:

Security forces are using unconventional military tactics and new combing routes to target Maoist cadres.
Despite these attacks, completely eliminating the Maoist threat is challenging.

Engaging Tribals and Welfare Measures:

The Indian state is trying to engage with tribals through welfare measures.
Previous campaigns, like the Salwa Judum, aimed at arming tribals against Maoists, were flawed and backfired.

Expanding Reach of Welfare State:

Expansion of the welfare state and bureaucracy has helped counter Maoist propaganda.
Many tribal people have grown tired of warfare and violence, leading to desertions in Maoist ranks.

Chhattisgarh Challenges:

In Chhattisgarh, constant warfare allows Maoists to tap into discontent.
Civil society and peace activists have attempted to facilitate ceasefire talks between Maoists and security forces.

Stubbornness and Refusal to Change Ideology:

Maoists refuse to give up their anachronistic ideology despite setbacks.
Their unwillingness to accept that tribals prefer engagement with the state rather than violent rebellion ensures the conflict persists.