‘Naxalism is a sign of poor governance premature to write its obituary until the socio-economic causes are addressed’

‘Naxalism is a sign of poor governance premature to write its obituary until the socio-economic causes are addressed’

Article:

Views of Prakash Singh, a former IPS officer on Urban Naxalism

Analysis:

What is Urban Naxalism?

Urban Naxalism means Naxalism as practised in urban areas by different shades of intellectuals

Why and how does Naxalism spread?

1. The spread of Naxalism is closely related to prevalence of poor governance in India. People are attracted to Naxals who promise to uphold their interests against the prevailing injustices in the society- corruption, unequal development
2. Further, the presence of political goons, extortionists who infiltrated into the Naxal movement accentuate the problem

Steps to be taken:

1. Governance:

• Ensure good governance
• Address farmers’ grievances
• Protect forest rights of tribals
• Taking up welfare measures in Naxal affected areas

2. Curb fundraising: Effective area domination by the security forces and ensuring security to all those contractors, businessmen and corporate houses operating in interior areas from whom Naxals extract money
3. Law and Enforcement:

• Enhancing capabilities of state police forces
• Improving ground level intelligence
• Ensuring better inter-state and Centre-state coordination