Chhattisgarh’s Anti-Naxalism Campaign: Historical Death toll and Ethical Questions

• The Bastar region in Chhattisgarh has been a site of armed struggle against government agencies for over 50 years.

• The largest anti-Naxal operation in the Maoist-affected State since Chhattisgarh’s creation in 2000 has resulted in the deaths of 31 of the 38 alleged Maoists.

• The crackdown has resulted in the recovery of 192 bodies, 762 arrests, 745 surrenders, and 207 weapons seized in 2024.

• Inspector General of Police Sundarraj P. predicts the end of Naxalism in the State by March 2026.

• Around 190 camps have been set up in Naxal strongholds, obstructing Maoist movement and supply routes.

• Access to basic facilities like a ration shop or health facilities is challenging for villagers who have to travel a long distance to reach them.

• Some villagers are against setting up new camps near the village, fearing security forces will take their lands away and torture them when they question them for having links with Naxals.

• The crackdown has been aided by rural development, Naxal memorials, research on the Maoist Conflict, technology upgrades, joint action, local reserve guards, and CRPF’s recruitment of a dedicated Bastar Battalion and a jungle warfare training centre.