India Declares Zero Naxal-Affected Districts, Home Ministry Says

NEW DELHI: The Union Home Ministry informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that the number of districts affected by Left-wing extremism (LWE) in India has fallen to zero, marking a significant milestone in the government's anti-Naxal operations. The announcement came on the same day that Misir Besra, believed to be the last active politburo member of the CPI (Maoist), was neutralised by security forces.

In a written reply to a question, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai stated that the count of LWE-affected districts dropped from 126 prior to April 2018 to zero as of recent assessments. The ministry attributed this decline to sustained security operations, development initiatives, and improved governance in previously affected regions.

According to data provided by the ministry, 33 incidents of Maoist violence were recorded until July 21 this year, resulting in the deaths of six civilians and five security personnel. This represents a sharp decline from 486 incidents in 2023, which claimed 107 civilian and 32 security force lives. The 2024 figures (or recent comparable period) show zero incidents in several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, and Kerala.

However, the ministry noted that 37 districts are still classified as 'legacy and thrust' districts, indicating residual Maoist influence or potential for resurgence. Chhattisgarh recorded 18 incidents and seven deaths, while Jharkhand reported 13 incidents and three deaths, suggesting the need for continued vigilance.

The term 'neutralised' in official parlance refers to the elimination or apprehension of a wanted militant. Besra's neutralisation is seen as a major blow to the Maoist leadership structure.

Experts caution that while the reduction in affected districts is commendable, the presence of legacy districts and sporadic violence highlight the need for sustained development and security efforts to ensure lasting peace.