Maoists have lost some of their striking power but not their sting altogether. The latest attack on the police and railway property in Jharkhand throws a new complexion on the scenario. A twenty four hour bandh had been called by the Maoists in four states- Chhatisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The Maoists in theory still have the policy of seizing power with violent means. But it has now turned into a battle against mining. Their offensive is now focused in areas where Governments are awarding new mining leases to private firms. These mines are in forest areas inhabited largely by tribals. The Maoist insurrection now seems to be a tribal uprising. The states had never done very much to develop these areas and so the Maoists are on a strong wicket. They have hopes of turning the area into a battleground.
No doubt the internal security of India demands the taming of Maoist rebels. Mining and manufacturing are vital in promoting economic growth. Domestic and foreign investors have made huge investments in mining in recent years. But that calls for acquisition of land and displacement of local inhabitants. The Odisha Government has been trying to implement the Posco project for seven years. Similar conflicts are brewing in other mining areas. Maoists are aiming to cash in on such situations. The Governments in the areas are in a cleft stick. They wish to encourage private investment and reduce people’s poverty. But the local people are apprehensive about the intrusion of big companies and official corruption aggravates their discontent.
