New Delhi
Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai reported a significant 36% decrease in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) or Naxalism-related violence incidents in 2022 compared to 2018. Responding to a query in the Lok Sabha, Rai highlighted a 59% reduction in the number of resultant deaths of security forces and civilians in such incidents. Specifically, in Chhattisgarh, LWE-related violence incidents decreased by 22%, with resultant deaths decreasing by 60%.
Rai emphasized a broader trend, noting a 76% reduction in LWE-related violent incidents in 2022 compared to the peak in 2010. Additionally, resultant deaths, involving security forces and civilians, reduced by 90%, dropping from 1,005 in 2010 to 98 in 2022. The geographical spread of LWE violence has also contracted, with the number of districts reporting violence decreasing from 96 in 2010 to 45 in 2022.
To address the issue holistically, a National Policy and Action Plan for LWE was approved in 2015, encompassing a multi-pronged strategy involving security measures, development interventions, and safeguarding the rights of local communities. The central government supports affected state governments with Central Armed Police Forces, training, funds through schemes like Security Related Expenditure (SRE), and various measures for development in LWE areas. Funding under the SRE scheme, amounting to Rs 1,648.23 crore since 2018-19, includes Rs 587.96 crore allocated for Chhattisgarh. Measures also include the construction of fortified police stations, strengthening of Special Forces, and initiatives for community policing.
