Sukma

An anti-Naxal activist and social worker, Farooq Ali, has praised the Centre’s “Naxal Mukt Bharat” initiative, calling the March 31, 2026 deadline to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism “effective” in light of recent developments.

Speaking in Sukma, Ali said that for decades, Naxalism had a deep-rooted presence in the Bastar region, functioning almost like a “parallel government”.

“Naxalism held sway over Bastar for nearly fifty years. Given how deeply it was entrenched, it felt like a parallel system of governance. Despite opposing it, many of us doubted whether it could truly be eliminated,” he said.

However, he noted that sustained security operations over the past two years—marked by surrenders and encounters—have significantly weakened Naxal groups, making the government’s deadline appear achievable.

Ali also reflected on how Naxalism initially gained a foothold in the region by presenting itself as a supporter of tribal rights, particularly over land, forests and water resources, before turning violent.

“They came as sympathisers, promising to fight for tribal rights, but later targeted innocent civilians, security personnel and elected representatives,” he said, adding that tribal communities were misled and exploited.

Sharing a personal account, Ali said his own family had suffered due to Maoist violence, with his elder brother being targeted. He emphasised that while the armed presence of Maoist groups is declining, the ideological battle will continue.

“The armed manifestation of Maoism is clearly on the decline, but its core ideology will remain a challenge,” he said.

Ali also highlighted improvements in infrastructure and governance in the region, crediting government initiatives for better road connectivity, electricity access and healthcare services.

“Roads are now reaching interior villages, electricity is being supplied, and healthcare is becoming more accessible. Government-run health camps are also helping people,” he said, expressing optimism about the region’s development.

The “Naxal Mukt Bharat” mission, spearheaded by the Union Home Ministry under Narendra Modi’s government, aims to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism across the country by March 31, 2026.

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Ali said people in Bastar are hopeful and willing to support the government’s efforts, adding that Chhattisgarh has the potential to emerge as one of India’s most developed states if progress continues.