This is called sending them to hell… Understand the big message of eliminating 31 Naxalites in one operation.

The security forces have indeed achieved a major victory. 31 Maoists were killed in a fierce encounter in the Abujhmar forests of Bastar, which has long been considered a stronghold of leftist militants. Top Maoist commanders Kamlesh and Neeti were also killed in the biggest encounter in the history of Chhattisgarh. This year has been the best in terms of anti-Maoist security operations, in which so far 202 Naxalites have been eliminated, 723 have surrendered and 812 have been arrested.

secret of success

There are many reasons for this success. The neutralization of a large number of Naxalites in Chhattisgarh is partly the result of better coordination between the state and central governments. Operationally, more security camps have been set up in Maoist hotspots this year, limiting the movement of Naxalites. Also, technological improvements such as the deployment of drones have greatly assisted the security forces in their operations.

winning formula

It cannot be denied that there has been a significant decline in Maoist violence across the country. Joint operations by security forces, better connectivity in remote areas and better delivery of government services have played a significant role in reducing Maoist violence by 72% in 2023 compared to 13 years ago. Today, left-wing extremists are mainly confined to certain areas along the inter-state borders. It is now clear that the Maoists cannot hope to dislodge the Indian State and this is reducing their recruitment. Add to this the elimination of top Maoist leaders, and leftist militants are the most insecure than they have been in decades.

challenges still

But the Indian government should not declare victory yet. Ensuring tribal rights, giving stake to tribals in local development, restricting the flow of illegal weapons from Nepal and Myanmar are all works in progress. Also, leftist extremists can trap people trapped in the vicious cycle of poverty to keep the movement going. Social and economic policies as well as security measures can be incorporated to eliminate the Maoist threat once and for all. The Indian state has shown that it is winning this battle. Now it must comprehensively win over the hearts and minds of the poorest of the poor to achieve a decisive victory.