Hindu Editorial Analysis : 19-December-2023
Left-wing extremists, commonly known as Maoists, have posed a significant threat to India since the 1960s. This radical Marxist movement, rooted in Mao Zedong’s teachings, aims to capture state power through a people’s war.
Threats & Violence
Scope of Threat: Identified as the most substantial threat to India’s internal security, Naxal violence is prevalent in the “Red Corridor,” encompassing Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal. The Naxalites target tribal communities, police, and government workers in their pursuit of improved land rights and employment opportunities for neglected laborers.
Maoism in Chhattisgarh & Electoral Challenges
Tribal Strongholds: Maoist insurgency thrives in Chhattisgarh’s tribal regions, particularly Bastar, with tribals forming the primary cadre base. Tribal votes hold significant political sway, influencing government formation in the state.
Electoral Violence: Elections in Maoist strongholds, designated as Schedule Five areas, witness frequent violence due to Maoist boycott calls. The tribal population’s substantial vote share adds complexity to the electoral landscape.
Issues & Challenges
No Resolution against Maoists: Political parties contesting in tribal areas often fail to address the core challenge of resolving the Maoist conundrum, discouraging mass participation in the democratic process.
Maoists’ Election Boycotts: Maoists, claiming to fight for the people, ironically force them to abstain from the democratic process through election boycott calls, hindering their empowerment.
Tribal Discontent: The Forest (Conservation) Act and poor implementation of the Forest Rights Act contribute to the displacement of tribal populations in Naxalism-affected states.
Governance-related Issues: The government’s focus on reducing violent attacks rather than implementing development initiatives hampers progress in Naxal-affected areas. Infrastructural problems persist, with some villages lacking proper communication networks.
Non-implementation of PESA: The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) aims to empower gram sabhas in tribal communities. However, its non-implementation by state governments allows Maoists to exploit governance gaps and establish their influence through ‘jantana sarkar.’
Why In News
The dismal polling turnout in the Maoist-affected areas of Chhattisgarh is a pointer that democracy needs to be strengthened at the grassroots; fostering community engagement and addressing local concerns are pivotal in revitalizing political participation in these regions.
MCQs about Strengthening Grassroots Democracy in Maoist
-
What is the primary objective of Maoist guerrillas in India?
A. Economic development
B. Social equality
C. Capturing state power through a people’s war
D. Cultural preservation
-
Why do Maoists call for election boycotts?
A. To express political neutrality
B. To encourage peaceful protests
C. To empower the people through the democratic process
D. To hinder mass participation and assert their agenda
-
What is the purpose of the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA)?
A. Empowering gram sabhas in tribal communities
B. Restricting tribal participation in governance
C. Promoting industrialization in tribal regions
D. Enhancing centralized governance in tribal areas
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
