Understanding the Role of Military Forces in Combating Maoists in India

The issue of combating Maoists in India has sparked considerable debate, with some advocating for the deployment of the Indian Army while others argue against it. The term 'Naxalites' is often used interchangeably with 'Maoists,' but the Indian Army has not typically engaged in direct combat against Maoists. This article explores the reasons behind the preference for other forces to handle Maoist situations and the limitations of military deployment.

Debates on Army Deployment

There have been suggestions, notably during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA-2) government period, to deploy the Indian Army against Maoists. This was not a novel idea when P. Chidambaram, then Home Minister, and V.K. Singh, then Army Chief, considered it. Singh, in his memoirs, discusses this suggestion extensively. However, the decision to keep military forces out of direct confrontation with Maoists is based on several critical factors.

Ethical and Training Considerations

One of the primary concerns is the ethical issue of deploying military forces against one's own citizens. The primary function of the Indian Army is to guard the country from external threats, not to serve as a policing force. Training discrepancies also play a significant role. Most military ranks come from urban and rural areas and are not highly educated. The risk of indoctrination by Maoists, who often exploit issues of poverty, state injustice, and the perceived indifference of superiors, is very real.

Operational Limitations

Deploying the military full-time in Maoist-affected areas to tackle insurgency and police the region is not feasible due to the lack of specialized training. While the military can carry out pinpoint jungle operations, akin to those in Kashmir and the North East, they are not equipped for extended policing duties. Their primary role is to rescue and treat the injured, evacuate personnel, and provide non-combatant support.

Recent Incidents and Lessons Learned

For example, in a recent ambush, 22 paramilitary and police personnel were killed. The Indian Air Force (IAF) was involved in evacuating casualties from the scene. Similarly, in past situations, injured personnel have been treated at military hospitals. The Indian Air Force has also been deployed for rescue operations. These incidents highlight the need for specialized forces like paramilitary and police units to handle Maoist situations effectively.

The Role of Paramilitary Forces

Paramilitary forces, such as the Special Frontier Force (SFF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Border Security Force (BSF), play a significant role in handling Maoist activities. These forces are more akin to police units and are trained for both combat and policing. The conduct of these forces, as well as the regular police, is often criticized. The ongoing issues with police conduct, including the treatment of civilians, contribute to the mistrust and resistance faced by Maoists.

Challenges for Local Law Enforcement

The Indian police force, influenced by British colonial policies, is often accused of treating every individual as a potential threat. This approach, while not unique to India, is a significant hurdle in addressing Maoist insurgency. Moreover, the lack of mass surrenders from Maoists can be attributed to the harsh treatment of civilians by law enforcement. This highlights the need for reform in local law enforcement practices to build trust and foster a more humane handling of the situation.

The Indian Army's Professional Reputation

While the Indian Army has a much more professional reputation, its limitation lies in its ability to be deployed against foreign threats, not local issues. This disparity is evident in the ongoing challenges of dealing with Maoists. The Indian Army's role is primarily to provide non-combatant support rather than engaging in direct operations, which is a better alignment with its mandate and capabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Indian Army's role in combating Maoists is limited due to ethical, training, and operational considerations. The need for specialized forces and reform in local law enforcement practices to address the root causes of conflict and build trust among the local population remains critical. Effective strategies must target both military and non-military approaches to ensure a sustainable solution to the Maoist challenge in India.