New Delhi, Mar 30: TMC MP Mahua Moitra launched a sharp critique of the government’s assertion that Naxalism has been eradicated in the Lok Sabha on Monday, pointing to alarming statistics: a 78% rise in encounters and a staggering 1,000% increase in deaths in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region.
“If Naxalism has ended and normalcy has returned, why do heavy troops still patrol in Bastar?” Moitra questioned, challenging the narrative of Maoist decline peddled by the Centre.
Her intervention came during discussions on internal security, where the government has repeatedly claimed significant victories over Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). Official data shows over 100 districts once affected by Naxalism now “free,” but Moitra argued the numbers tell a different story—escalating violence contradicting “normalcy” claims.
Bastar, a Maoist stronghold in Chhattisgarh, has seen intensified operations, with security forces reporting higher engagement rates. Critics like Moitra contend this reflects persistent insurgency rather than success, questioning the heavy military footprint in tribal areas and its impact on civilians.
The firebrand TMC leader from Krishnanagar, known for her pointed parliamentary interventions, used the platform to demand transparency on troop deployments and civilian casualties. Her remarks echo broader opposition concerns over security strategies in “surrendered” zones.
Responding to similar critiques earlier, Home Minister Amit Shah has maintained that operations are in “mopping-up” phases, with surrenders and development initiatives bringing lasting peace. However, Moitra’s data-driven attack has reignited the debate ahead of the Monsoon Session.
This exchange highlights deepening political divides on national security, with implications for states like J&K where similar “normalcy” narratives face scrutiny.
