Relevance: GS 3(Internal Security)
Trends in Casualties (2024–2025)
Sharp surge in total Maoist deaths:
- 2024: 217 killed (74 women)
- Till June 2025: 195 killed (82 women)
Proportion of women casualties increased:
- Over 1/3rd of Maoists killed in recent operations are women — a significant rise from previous years.
Contrast with past data (2019–2023):
- Fewer overall deaths; lower share of women (e.g., 2023: 20 deaths, only 5 women).
Reasons Behind High Women Presence
Coercion of tribal families:
- Faced with threats, Adivasi parents often part with girl children, who are then inducted into Maoist ranks.
Formation of Bal Dastas:
- Maoists recruit children, especially girls, indoctrinating them early.
Use of women as foot soldiers & human shields:
- Women often deployed in vulnerable roles, while leadership remains male-dominated.
Contradictions in Maoist Ideology
Discrepancy in gender rhetoric:
- Maoists claim to oppose patriarchy, but rarely promote women to leadership roles.
Manipulation of education:
- Maoists attack schools, fearing education will empower tribals and challenge their hold.
Government Response
- Increased operations post-MHA’s goal to end Maoism by March 2026.
- Focus on rehabilitation: Authorities encourage voluntary surrender, with gender-sensitive rehabilitation policies.
- Sensitivity to women’s plight: Officials acknowledge physical/emotional hardship faced by women in Maoist ranks.
Broader Issues
- State failure in tribal areas: Persistent poverty, lack of education, and insecurity make tribal women vulnerable.
- Need for balanced approach: Combining security action with development and social outreach is crucial.
