Prakash Singh, former Director General of Border Security Force known for his rich experience and scholarship, has written an article titled ‘Killer App(roach) Against Naxalites? Peace, Not Guns (The Times of India, October 18) which the government will do well to consider very seriously as it advocates a justice based peace approach that is much needed particularly for longer-term, sustainable improvements.
Mr. Singh sets the tone for his analysis by stating right in the beginning that the government has lacked a holistic understanding in its approach to Naxalism affected areas. He objects to a minister’s statement calling for a “ruthless” approach” by saying clearly that “ruthlessness should have no place when you are dealing with your own people.”
Instead he suggests that after any actions against Naxalites, “it is for the administration to fill the vacuum and provide necessary infra to improve tribals’ lives.” This, he adds, “unfortunately has not been happening…”
While the government has been emphasizing development, Mr. Singh voices an important “note of caution—Development, while providing basic necessities to the tribals, should not disturb their traditional way of life. It should focus on local handicrafts and promotion of tribal art and culture and languages. Primary health centers and schools may be established, but any mega projects should be avoided because they lead to destruction of forests, alienation of land from the tribals and their displacement.”
As for the real situation, Mr. Singh draws attention to disturbing government data and reports. According to the environment ministry, from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2023, over 88,903 hectares of forest land was diverted for non-forestry purposes. Mr. Singh adds that land-alienation is a very sore point with the tribal communities. A rural development ministry report has stated that it leaves “the tribal people totally exhausted, impoverished and traumatized.”
Prakash Singh emphasizes that genuine grievances of people must be removed. He says quite strongly, “Almost every Naxal has a grievance against the state, a story of discrimination, persecution or exploitation.”
So instead of any ruthlessness Mr. Singh gives very different advice to the government. He suggests—“The Government of India should consider declaring unilateral ceasefire for two months in all Naxal-affected areas, call upon cadres to surrender, promise them some immunity in cases against them, and assure them of rehabilitation. At the same time, the government should invite Naxal leaders for peace talks, listen to their grievances, address them to the extent possible, and persuade them to join the mainstream.”
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Mr. Singh concludes by saying, “It is time to heal the wounds and win over the hearts and minds of the Naxals. That alone can ensure a lasting solution.”
This approach is refreshingly different from the narrow, militaristic voices heard more commonly, and the government would do well to heed the far-sighted, peace with justice approach advocated by Mr. Prakash Singh.
Bharat Dogra is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Protecting Earth for Children, When the Two Streams Met, Man over Machine and A Day in 2071.
