Left Wing Extremism in India
Nature and Extent
Left Wing Extremism (LWE), also referred to as Naxalism or the Maoist movement, represents one of India's most significant internal security challenges. The movement traces its roots to the Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal in 1967, when peasants led by Charu Majumdar and Kanu Sanyal revolted against feudal landlords, inspired by Maoist ideology from China. The Communist Party of India (Maoist), formed in 2004 through the merger of the People's War Group and the Maoist Communist Centre, is the principal Maoist organisation and is designated as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. At its peak, LWE influence spanned a "Red Corridor" covering approximately 90 districts across 10 states; by 2026 the footprint has contracted significantly — to under 30 affected districts, primarily in Chhattisgarh.
- Bastar region (Chhattisgarh) remains the most operationally active area; districts such as Sukma, Bijapur, Dantewada, and Narayanpur have seen the highest LWE violence
- The MHA annual report categorises districts into Most Affected, Marginally Affected, and Districts of Concern
- Jhiram Valley massacre (May 25, 2013): 27 killed including Chhattisgarh Congress Chief Nand Kumar Patel and former Union Minister Vidya Charan Shukla; one of the deadliest LWE attacks
- The government has set a target of eliminating LWE by March 31, 2026 — the current event reflects progress toward that goal
● Tracked since February 28, 2026 · last seen May 19, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes