Decline of Naxalite Violence in India has emerged as one of the most significant internal security developments in recent years. Once considered the country’s “biggest internal security threat,” Naxalism appears to be nearing its end after decades of violence, insurgency, and socio-political turmoil. This decline comes at a time when global terrorism is evolving in new and dangerous forms, particularly with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for extremist groups. For India, however, the weakening of Naxalite militancy signals a historic transition in its security landscape.
Global Terrorism in Contrast
Even as India records progress against Naxalite groups, global terrorism continues to pose severe challenges. More than two decades after the 9/11 attacks, groups like Islamic State (IS) continue to inspire violence across continents. Lone wolf attacks, including vehicle rammings and stabbings, remain a persistent threat.
Experts warn that new technologies such as AI could allow terrorists to plan sophisticated attacks, create bio-weapons, or spread disinformation on a large scale. The possibility of autonomous AI systems acting without human control adds to global insecurity fears. Compared to these transnational threats, the Decline of Naxalite Violence in India highlights the success of targeted national policies against a specific insurgent movement.
India’s Naxalite Movement: From Ideology to Decline
The Naxalite movement began in the late 1960s, rooted in Marxist-Leninist ideology. Drawing inspiration from global revolutions in China, Vietnam, and Latin America, leaders like Charu Mazumdar mobilised the tribal and rural poor against landlords, state authorities, and social inequalities. In its early years, the movement combined revolutionary zeal with mass mobilisation.
Over time, however, the Naxalite cause fragmented. Internal divisions, loss of ideological coherence, and reliance on violence alienated potential supporters. While the insurgency managed to survive across the “Red Corridor” — spanning Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh — it gradually lost both popular legitimacy and operational strength.
The present Decline of Naxalite Violence in India reflects not only military pressure but also the weakening of the insurgency’s ideological foundation.
Intensified Operations and Territorial Losses
Since 2024, the government has intensified counter-insurgency operations in the Dandakaranya region, historically the stronghold of Naxalite groups. Thousands of militants have been killed, captured, or have surrendered. Key leaders have either been eliminated or forced underground, leading to leadership crises and loss of morale among cadres.
Security forces have also increased their presence in remote forested regions, denying militants safe havens. Developmental initiatives in affected districts, including road construction, electrification, and welfare schemes, have reduced local support for insurgents.
As a result, the Decline of Naxalite Violence in India is visible in statistics — with incidents of violence and casualties at their lowest in decades. Official statements suggest that by mid-2026, the insurgency may cease to exist as a major threat, marking the end of one of India’s longest-running internal conflicts.
Differences Between Indian and Global Counter-Terrorism
India’s approach to Naxalism is notably different from the counter-terror campaigns pursued globally. Unlike the U.S.-led “war on terror,” which often involves large-scale military interventions abroad, India’s strategy balances the use of force with political outreach and socio-economic measures.
By addressing local grievances, extending governance, and promoting development, India has undermined the support base of insurgents. This dual approach of security and development has been central to the Decline of Naxalite Violence in India, distinguishing it from counter-terrorism models that rely heavily on military force.
The Misuse of the Term ‘Urban Naxals’
In public discourse, the term “urban naxals” is sometimes misapplied to intellectuals, activists, or critics of government policies. While some urban networks did historically support the movement, conflating dissenters with armed militants distorts both public understanding and policy responses.
The original Naxalite movement had structured ideology, organisation, and armed cadres. Misusing the label risks weakening democratic debate and undermining civil liberties. The Decline of Naxalite Violence in India should therefore be distinguished from attempts to suppress legitimate criticism or activism.
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Terrorism
While India celebrates progress against Naxalism, global experts highlight new dangers shaped by Artificial Intelligence. AI could be exploited by terrorists for planning attacks, spreading extremist propaganda, or even weaponising biological agents.
The unpredictability of advanced AI systems raises concerns about autonomous decision-making beyond human control. These risks demand international cooperation and governance frameworks to prevent misuse. In this sense, the Decline of Naxalite Violence in India contrasts sharply with the uncertainty surrounding future terror threats worldwide.
Conclusion
The Decline of Naxalite Violence in India represents a historic shift in the nation’s internal security landscape. Decades of insurgency that once gripped large parts of the country are now nearing their end, thanks to sustained counter-insurgency measures, socio-economic development, and weakening militant leadership.
Yet, as India turns the page on Naxalism, global terrorism continues to evolve, with AI adding unprecedented risks. The Indian experience demonstrates the value of combining force with development to resolve insurgencies, offering lessons for other nations.
If current trends hold, by 2026 India could finally close a chapter on Naxalite militancy, reinforcing its democratic resilience while preparing for new security challenges on the global stage.
