According to the police, three Naxalites were fatally shot in a clash with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district on Sunday. The operation marks another instance of the ongoing efforts to combat left-wing extremism in the region.
On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited the Narendra Modi government’s comprehensive strategy for both development and security as a significant factor in dealing a blow to the Maoists. Using the hashtag #NaxalFreeBharat in his social media posts, Shah highlighted the government’s offensive strategy under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi.
Shah emphasized that the Modi government has gained people’s trust by fostering collaboration with state governments for overall development, showcasing the success of the approach in tackling Naxalism.
Ministry of Home Affairs data reveals a substantial reduction in left-wing extremism-related violence and casualties over the past decade (2014-2023). Specifically, incidents of violence have decreased by 52%, with the number of deaths dropping by 69%, reflecting a positive trend in the government’s efforts.
Fatalities among security forces due to left-wing extremism have seen a notable decline of 72%, while civilian deaths have reduced by 68%, according to the data. The decrease is indicative of the effectiveness of the government’s measures in curbing the menace.
The data further outlines a decline in the number of districts experiencing violence, decreasing by 53% from 96 in 2010 to 45 in 2022. Additionally, the number of police stations reporting violence has dropped from 465 in 2010 to 176 in 2022. These statistics suggest a strategic impact on reducing the footprint of left-wing extremism in affected areas.
The encounter in Kanker and the broader decline in Naxal-related incidents reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining security and fostering development in regions historically affected by left-wing extremism.