The year 2025 has witnessed a concerning surge in both the killings of female Naxalites and the number of surrenders among them, marking a significant shift in the landscape of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India since 2001. This exclusive report delves into the factors contributing to this trend, analyzing the government's counter-insurgency strategies and the socio-economic conditions that continue to fuel Naxalism, particularly affecting women.

Data indicates a sharp rise in the number of women Maoist cadres killed in anti-Naxal operations, especially in Chhattisgarh. As of June 20, 2025, 82 women had been killed in Chhattisgarh alone, out of 195 Maoists neutralized. This follows a similar trend in 2024, where 74 out of 217 Maoists killed were women. This increase raises concerns about the roles women are forced to play within Naxal groups and the strategies employed by security forces. Women cadres often serve as foot soldiers, human shields, and frontline fighters, making them vulnerable in encounters.

Conversely, there has also been a notable increase in surrenders among female Naxalites. In the first quarter of 2025, overall Naxal surrenders doubled compared to the previous year, with a significant number of women laying down arms. Several factors contribute to this, including disillusionment with Maoist ideology, the harsh realities of life in the insurgency, and the attractive rehabilitation policies offered by the government. Many who surrender cite "hollow" and "inhuman" Maoist ideology and atrocities against local tribals as reasons for their decision.

The government's approach to combating Naxalism involves a multi-pronged strategy that combines security measures, development initiatives, and rehabilitation programs. Operation Green Hunt, launched in 2009, deploys paramilitary forces to eliminate Naxalite presence in core-affected regions. Increased deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and specialized forces like CoBRA and Greyhounds strengthens counter-insurgency efforts. However, the government also recognizes the need for a more holistic approach. The 'Chhattisgarh Naxal Surrender/Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025' aims to provide higher compensation, free education, healthcare, and job opportunities to victims of Naxal violence and offer surrendered Naxalites rehabilitation and legal support to start a new life.

Several developmental programs also aim to address the root causes of Naxalism. The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana II enhances road connectivity to improve access to remote areas and facilitate security operations. The ROSHNI Scheme focuses on training and employment opportunities for rural youth in LWE-affected districts. Furthermore, initiatives like Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) and mobile towers aim to improve access to quality education and communication in Naxal-affected areas.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Socio-economic inequalities, landlessness, exploitation of tribal communities, lack of development, and ineffective governance continue to fuel Naxalism. Women, in particular, face coercion, indoctrination, and forced recruitment into armed roles due to the vulnerabilities of poor Adivasi families. The Maoist practice of recruiting children, ideological indoctrination, patriarchal exploitation, and lack of alternative opportunities further exacerbate the problem.

Moreover, the Naxalite movement's failure to address the specific vulnerabilities and exploitation endured by women within its ranks and afflicted communities remains a significant concern. Reports indicate instances of sexual and gender-based violence in conflict zones, with women caught between Naxalites, security forces, and entrenched patriarchal structures.

Looking ahead, experts anticipate a continued escalation in the use of force from the Indian government, alongside efforts to improve connectivity and access to remote areas. While these measures may weaken Naxal-Maoist cadres, the underlying issues of social justice, land rights, and economic inequality must be addressed to achieve a lasting resolution. The government's commitment to eliminating Naxalism by March 31, 2026, requires a sustained and comprehensive approach that prioritizes the protection and empowerment of women in conflict-affected areas.