Following the decline of Naxalism in Odisha, Central Range IGP Satyajit Naik has argued that Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) cannot be tackled through policing alone, emphasising that long-term resolution requires a combination of security operations, good governance, socio-economic development, and community participation.
In his policy paper titled “An Analysis of Naxal Insurgency in Odisha: A Multi-faceted Approach,” submitted to the Bharti Institute of Public Policy at the Indian School of Business (ISB), IGP Naik noted that insurgencies tend to grow in regions where government outreach is weak and local populations feel marginalized.
It outlined a phased strategy recommending enhanced intelligence and inter-agency coordination in the short term, focused socio-economic development in the medium term, and robust community policing in the long term to rebuild public trust in state institutions.
With the Maoist presence drastically diminished, Naik stated that the state’s priority must now transition from counter-insurgency operations to sustainable development and state-building. Expanding infrastructure – such as roads, schools, medical facilities, job opportunities, banking services, and digital connectivity – will be essential to translate hard-won security gains into lasting regional stability.
The next phase of governance, according to Naik, ought to prioritize job creation, infrastructure development, healthcare and education upgrades, forest rights enforcement, and fair rehabilitation initiatives for affected populations.
The policy framework also highlights community policing—specifically proposing a three-tier ‘AMA Police’ model—to foster stronger trust and direct engagement between security forces and key groups, including tribal communities, youth, women, and local civic institutions.
However, Naik cautioned against early complacency, stressing that continuous vigilance is crucial in vulnerable pockets to prevent any potential resurgence of extremist activity. Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and specialized counter-insurgency units will remain key to maintaining regional security.
Looking ahead, Naik emphasized that former conflict-affected zones should be transformed into economic growth centres by leveraging opportunities in tribal entrepreneurship, eco-tourism, forest-based commerce, sports development, education, and digital access.
The goal, therefore, should move beyond being merely “Naxal-free” to becoming “peace-secure”, where security, development and public trust reinforce each other, he stated.
