Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Definition: Define Naxalism and its origins, mentioning its start as a farmers’ protest in 1967 in Naxalbari, West Bengal. Context: Highlight Naxalism as a significant internal security threat with social, economic, and developmental dimensions. 2. Emerging Issues A. Expansion ...
Insurgency in North-Eastern India After Independence 1. Early Developments: After India gained independence, ethnic and political unrest in the North-East began to take shape due to factors such as historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and demands for autonomy. The Naga insurgency started in the 1Read more
Insurgency in North-Eastern India After Independence
1. Early Developments: After India gained independence, ethnic and political unrest in the North-East began to take shape due to factors such as historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and demands for autonomy. The Naga insurgency started in the 1950s, led by the Naga National Council (NNC), advocating for an independent Nagaland.
2. Formation of Insurgent Groups: Over time, various insurgent groups emerged across the region, each with specific demands. For instance, the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), formed in 1979, sought an independent Assam, driven by perceived economic exploitation and cultural marginalization. Similarly, the Mizo National Front (MNF), initially seeking autonomy, escalated to a demand for secession, leading to armed conflict in the 1960s.
3. Government Response and Peace Processes: The Indian government’s response included both military action and political negotiations. The Assam Accord of 1985 was a significant step towards addressing Assamese grievances and integrating ULFA members into the political process. The Mizo Peace Accord in 1986 granted the Mizo Hills autonomy under the Mizoram State.
4. Recent Trends: Insurgency in the North-East has evolved, with increased focus on peace and reconciliation. The Naga Peace Accord (2015), signed with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM), aimed at resolving long-standing issues, though challenges remain. The Bodo Accord (2020) has been a recent success, granting greater autonomy to the Bodo people in Assam.
5. Ongoing Challenges: Despite progress, challenges persist, such as ethnic clashes, extremist factions, and demands for further autonomy. The armed groups in Manipur and the Khasi and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya continue to pose security concerns.
Conclusion: The state of insurgency in North-Eastern India reflects a complex interplay of historical, ethnic, and political factors. While significant progress has been made through peace accords and political integration, the region continues to face challenges that require ongoing dialogue and development efforts.
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Model Answer Introduction Naxalism in India began as a farmers' protest in 1967 in Naxalbari, West Bengal, but has evolved into a significant internal security threat. This movement poses challenges not only to law and order but also to social and economic development in affected regions. Emerging IRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Naxalism in India began as a farmers’ protest in 1967 in Naxalbari, West Bengal, but has evolved into a significant internal security threat. This movement poses challenges not only to law and order but also to social and economic development in affected regions.
Emerging Issues
A. Expansion of Influence
Naxalites are intensifying their activities, particularly in the “Red Corridor,” which includes states like Chhattisgarh, where there has been a noted increase in violence and recruitment.
B. Socio-Economic Disparity
Poverty and underdevelopment in Naxal-affected areas, especially in Bihar and Jharkhand, contribute to social unrest. The lack of basic services fosters discontent among marginalized communities.
C. Forced Recruitment
Naxal groups often resort to coercion, forcibly recruiting youth from tribal and marginalized communities to sustain their ranks. This tactic perpetuates the cycle of violence and unrest.
D. Urban Naxalism
The ideological influence of Naxalism is spreading to urban areas, complicating the security landscape. Recent arrests of activists in cities like Mumbai and Delhi highlight this trend.
E. Exploitation of Local Issues
Naxalites exploit local grievances, such as land rights conflicts, to gain support, complicating efforts to address the root causes of discontent.
Multilayered Strategy (SAMADHAN)
A. Enhanced Security Measures
Strengthening intelligence and inter-state coordination is crucial. Operations like ‘Operation Prahaar’ in Chhattisgarh have demonstrated the effectiveness of these measures in containing insurgency.
B. Socio-Economic Development
Addressing regional disparities through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana can alleviate some of the socio-economic grievances that fuel Naxalism (Source: Ministry of Rural Development).
C. Engagement and Dialogue
Establishing channels for dialogue can facilitate the reintegration of Naxalites into society. Surrender and rehabilitation policies in various states exemplify this approach.
D. Strategic Counter-Narrative
Creating a counter-narrative to challenge Naxal ideology is vital. Initiatives like the ‘vikas sangharsh samiti’ in Maharashtra effectively promote development over violence.
E. Rehabilitation Programs
Programs like ‘Project Salam’ in Maharashtra aim to reintegrate former Naxalites, providing them with alternatives to violence.
Conclusion
Addressing Naxalism requires a comprehensive approach that tackles both immediate security concerns and the underlying socio-economic disparities. By combining security measures with development initiatives and fostering dialogue, India can work towards eradicating this persistent menace.
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