Government’s efforts to tackle Naxalite violence in Chhattisgarh

Source: The post government’s efforts to tackle Naxalite violence in Chhattisgarh has been created, based on the article “Working toward a meaningful ‘victims’ register’ in Bastar” published in “The Hindu” on 23rd October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Security Issues

Context: The article discusses the government’s efforts to tackle Naxalite violence in Chhattisgarh. It highlights the importance of supporting victims, improving governance, and using a holistic approach, while cautioning against creating further societal divides during conflict resolution efforts.

For detailed information on Maoist Insurgency in India read this article here

How is the government addressing left-wing extremism?

1. The government is tackling Naxalite violence in Chhattisgarh by addressing security and development together.
2. They aim to ensure local community rights and improve governance. This approach has shown some success in decreasing violence in areas like Bastar division, which includes districts such as Bastar, Narayanpur, and Dantewada.
3. The government plans to improve how victims of violence are registered and supported, as stated by Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Vijay Sharma.
4. The victims’ register aims to document all affected individuals impartially, which can aid in conflict resolution, similar to successful efforts in countries like Colombia.
5. This should build trust among tribals and strengthen the state’s position against Maoists, especially now when Maoist influence is waning.

What challenges do the victims face?

1. Displacement and Insecurity: Around 55,000 tribals fled to Andhra Pradesh during the peak years of Salwa Judum (mid-2000s) and have not been able to return home. They continue to seek redress and the opportunity to return to their communities in Chhattisgarh.
2. Historical Neglect: The tribal communities have been victims of structural violence and neglect since colonial times, which has persisted post-independence. This ongoing neglect allowed Maoists to gain support by filling governance gaps in regions like Dandakaranya, covering parts of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
3. Dual Victimisation: Tribals are often caught between violence from Maoist groups and state forces, complicating their identification and support through governmental initiatives like the victims’ register.

Way forward

The victim identification process must be fair and unbiased. If not, it could create further divides in society. Trust and reconciliation are key to making this effort successful, ensuring that all victims are heard and supported.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges faced by tribal victims of Naxalite violence in Chhattisgarh and the government’s efforts to support them.