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Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India's approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE.

GS310 Marks2018Model answer

Introduction

Left Wing Extremism (LWE), often referred to as the "single biggest internal security challenge" by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, has seen a declining trend in recent years. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), incidents of LWE violence have reduced by 77% between 2009 and 2022, and the number of affected districts has dropped from 223 in 2010 to 46 in 2021. However, LWE continues to impact regions like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra, posing challenges to governance, development, and security.

Key Dimensions of LWE Challenges

Government of India's Approach to Counter LWE

The Government of India has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to address the challenges posed by LWE, focusing on security, development, and governance. The approach is encapsulated in the National Policy and Action Plan (2015) and includes the following key measures:

1. Security-Centric Measures

  • Operation SAMADHAN: A comprehensive strategy launched in 2017 to tackle LWE through Smart leadership, Aggressive strategy, Motivation and training, Actionable intelligence, Dashboard-based KPIs, Harnessing technology, and No access to funds.
  • Modernization of Police Forces (MPF): Financial assistance to states for upgrading police infrastructure, weapons, and training.
  • Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs): Enhanced presence of CRPF, BSF, and ITBP in LWE-affected areas.
  • Unified Command Structure: Coordination between state and central forces for joint operations.
  • Use of Technology: Deployment of UAVs, satellite imagery, and GPS tracking to monitor LWE activities.

2. Developmental Initiatives

  • Special Central Assistance (SCA): Financial support to the most affected districts for infrastructure development, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.
  • Road Connectivity Projects: Construction of 11,000 km of roads under the Road Requirement Plan (RRP-I) and RRP-II to improve accessibility in remote areas.
  • Skill Development Programs: Initiatives like ROSHNI and Skill India Mission to provide employment opportunities to youth in LWE-affected regions.
  • Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Focus on improving education for tribal children.

3. Governance Reforms

  • Strengthening Local Governance: Empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to ensure grassroots participation in decision-making.
  • Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006: Recognizing the rights of tribals over forest land to reduce alienation.
  • Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT): Ensuring transparency and reducing leakages in welfare schemes.
  • Aspirational Districts Programme: Holistic development of backward districts, many of which are LWE-affected.

4. Winning Hearts and Minds

  • Civic Action Programs (CAPs): Conducted by CAPFs to build trust with local communities through medical camps, sports events, and cultural programs.
  • Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy: Encouraging LWE cadres to surrender by offering financial assistance, skill training, and reintegration into society.

Challenges in Implementation

  • Geographical Constraints: Dense forests and difficult terrain hinder security and development efforts.
  • Local Support for LWE: Alienation of tribals due to displacement and lack of livelihood opportunities sustains LWE recruitment.
  • Inter-State Coordination: Lack of seamless coordination between states in joint operations.
  • Funding and Resources: Limited financial and human resources in some states to implement central schemes effectively.

Way Forward

  • Integrated Approach: Strengthen the synergy between security, development, and governance measures.
  • Community Participation: Involve local communities in planning and implementing development projects to build trust.
  • Technology-Driven Solutions: Expand the use of AI, drones, and real-time data analytics for intelligence gathering and operational efficiency.
  • Focus on Education and Employment: Enhance skill development and educational opportunities to address the root causes of LWE.
  • Strengthen Federal Cooperation: Improve coordination between central and state governments through regular reviews and joint task forces.

Conclusion

The Government of India's holistic and coordinated approach has yielded significant results in curbing LWE. However, sustained efforts are required to address the root causes of alienation and underdevelopment. By ensuring inclusive growth, participatory governance, and robust security, India can achieve the vision of a LWE-free nation, aligning with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and the constitutional goal of "Justice, social, economic, and political."

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