Indian security forces have launched a massive assault against Maoist fighters in Chhattisgarh state, aiming to “wipe out” the long-running armed rebellion in the mineral-rich tribal region. The operation, dubbed “Operation Zero or Kagar,” involves over 10,000 soldiers and has resulted in the deaths of at least 201 Maoist rebels this year in India.
The Maoist Movement
The Maoist movement originated in the 1967 Naxalbari uprising, which called for addressing landlessness and exploitation of the rural poor. The movement has splintered into multiple factions over the years, with the Communist Party of India (Maoist) being the largest armed Maoist organization in India today.
Government’s Hardline Approach
The BJP-run government has intensified security operations, killing at least 223 alleged Maoists in 2024 alone. Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that India will be “Naxal-free” by March 31, 2026. However, human rights groups accuse the security forces of carrying out fake encounters and extrajudicial killings.
Human Rights Concerns
The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 11,000 civilians and security forces since 2000. Human rights groups have raised concerns about the plight of Adivasi communities, who are caught between the Maoists and the security forces. Activists argue that the government’s hardline approach will only alienate the Adivasis further.
The Real Fight
Some argue that the conflict is not just about ideology but also about the exploitation of natural resources, particularly iron ore. The government has set up security camps in mining zones, preparing for renewed extraction. Tribal leaders argue that the real issue is the displacement of local communities and the destruction of their environment.
A Path Forward
The government has offered peace talks to Maoists, but the rebels insist on a ceasefire and withdrawal of paramilitary forces as conditions for talks. Activists believe that the government must take the initiative for peace talks and create an environment conducive to dialogue. Former DGP Vishwaranjan says that Maoism is an ideology that cannot be defeated through violence alone and that the government needs to address the underlying issues of economic inequality.