DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Shreyansh Gupta
01230010004014

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

 INTRODUCTION

Domestic terrorism stands as a formidable challenge at the intersection of crime and

society, casting a shadow over the fabric of nations and communities. Unlike traditional

criminal activities, domestic terrorism transcends individual motives for personal gain,

manifesting as a calculated assault on the very foundations of societal peace and

stability. This form of terrorism is rooted within a nation's borders, carried out by

individuals or groups with ideological, political, or religious motivations that seek to

instill fear, disrupt societal norms, and often challenge the legitimacy of established

governments.

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

In the context of crime and society, domestic terrorism presents a unique and complex

set of challenges for law enforcement, policymakers, and citizens alike. It blurs the lines

between political activism and criminal behavior, testing the limits of legal frameworks

designed to address more conventional criminal threats. The motives behind domestic

terrorism are often deeply ingrained in societal issues, ranging from political grievances

to racial tensions, making it essential to understand the broader context within which

these acts unfold.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM KEYWORDS

1. External Support
2. Arms Oriented Movement
3. Insensitive Political System
4. Property and Economic Inequality
5. Slow Implementation of Land Reforms
6. Failed Expectations
7. Lack of Adequate knowledge and Education

CASE STUDY

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

Naxalism was prevalent in the area even before the birth of Jhankhand in the then state of
Bihar. Presently 18 districts out of 24 districts in Jharkhand are affected by Naxalism.
Hazaribargh, Lohardaga, Palamu, Chatra, Garhwa, Ranchi, Gumla, Simdega, Latehar, Giridih,
Koderma, Bokaro, Dhanbad, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Saraikela, Kharsawa, Khunti,
Ramgarhare are Naxalite affected areas.74
Since the bifurcation of the state of Bihar into Bihar and Jharkhand, and birth of Jharkhand on
15th November 2000, Naxalite violence, especially that of the MCC, has shifted to Jharkhand,
which is rich in mineral and forest wealth. Jharkhand, provides higher prospect for raising funds
for the Naxalite activities.
Causes of Naxalism in Jharkhand

External Support :-The external political factor was the influence of the Chinese
Communist Party and Mao Zedong. The Naxalites were deeply influenced by the two. Their
slogans were: China’s path isour path, China’s Chairman is our Chairman.

Arms oriented movement :-The Naxalbari movement became the symbol of

armed peasant uprising and of Maoism in India and evolved as a new political movement
deriving its name from it. It has taken the path of violence and aggression by the use of arms
and terror.

Insensitive political system :-The system is non-responsive to the needs of the

tribals. Tribals, have have received little from the Indian state after independence. The Indian
state has always taken the land and alienated the tribals for ‘progress’ that must be put up
with. They remained exploited and do
not have oppurtunities to progress.

Poverty and economic Inequality :-Rising incomes in the post-reform India

have created a rapidly growing aspiring class but these have also contributed to an army of
socio-economic orphans who have been rejected by all mainstream political parties.

Slow implementation of land reforms:-The slow implementation of land

reforms is the main reason for the growth of Naxalism. Landlords frequently moved the court
to delay implementation of these reforms. They also settel with local politicians and

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

bureaucrats, making the land reform process slow and cumbersome. Land reforms failed in the
end.

Failed expectations:-They may have some hope in the future but it may so happen
that in the future they do not receive any benefits from growth and further their situation
worsened by a sudden change. All these make them feel that their present situation is worse
than the past.

Lack of adequate knowledge and education:- Schooling is poor or

nonexistent; hence the rural youth fight a losing battle against their urban youth counterparts.
This forces them to return to rural areas, still aspiring for urban facilities.

Stratergy of Naxalism in Jharkhand :-

Hit and Run :- They resorted to as “hit and run” tactics so that they may create panic in
the police force and can run away with their arms and ammunitions.

Release of Comrades :- Attack is organized when some important comrades are to be

released from the police custody or from jails.

Indoctrination :-The new technique of the Naxalites in Jharkhand is to indoctrinate kids,

who would constitute cannon fodder for the revolution. Target the young is the new buzzword
among the top brass of the Maoist extremists in Jharkhand these days. They have decided on
roping in the kids by deep penetration into schools in the rural pockets of Jharkhand and
indoctrination of revolutionary ideals in the young minds

Characterstic of Naxalism in Jharkhand :-

Intensity of Naxalism :-The Naxalites are most active in Jharkhand. They make more
destruction in Jharkhand when compared to states like Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Maharashtra
and other states.

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

 Naxal clamp downs :-In Jharkhand, the Naxalites announce the most number of
clamp downs. When compared to other states which are affected by Naxalites. Jharkhand faces
far more number of clamp downs (Naxali bandi). Almost, in every two months, there is a Naxal
clamp.

Tough to infiltrate:-Compared to other states like Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh,

Jharkhand is a plateau and the geographical features here don't allow the armed authorities to
penetrate deep into jungles, infiltrate it and fight Naxals. Whenever, they tried to do so, most
of the times, they lost their lives.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
Preventing domestic terrorism requires a multifaceted approach that addresses various
aspects, including social, economic, and political factors. Here are some preventative methods:

1. **Community Engagement:**
- Foster positive relationships between law enforcement agencies and local communities.
- Encourage community members to report suspicious activities and maintain open lines of
communication.

2. **Education and Awareness:**

- Implement educational programs to raise awareness about the dangers of extremism and
radicalization.
- Promote critical thinking skills and media literacy to help individuals discern credible
information.

3. **Early Intervention Programs:**

- Develop programs that identify individuals at risk of radicalization and provide support and
intervention before they become involved in extremist activities.

4. **Social Services and Economic Development:**

- Address underlying socio-economic issues that can contribute to feelings of marginalization
and disenfranchisement.

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

 - Invest in programs that provide economic opportunities, education, and social services in at-
risk communities.

5. **Crisis Intervention and Mental Health Services:**

- Enhance mental health services to identify and address individuals who may be susceptible
to radicalization due to psychological or emotional vulnerabilities.

6. **Counter-Radicalization Programs:**
- Establish initiatives that work to counter extremist narratives and ideologies through online
and offline channels.
- Collaborate with community leaders, educators, and religious figures to promote messages
of tolerance and inclusion.

7. **Intelligence Sharing and Coordination:**

- Improve information sharing and coordination between law enforcement agencies at the
local, state, and federal levels.
- Enhance collaboration between domestic and international intelligence agencies.

8. **Security Measures:**
- Implement effective security measures, such as surveillance and monitoring of high-risk
areas and individuals.
- Strengthen border security to prevent the influx of potential threats.

CONCLUSION

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

In conclusion, addressing domestic terrorism is a complex and multifaceted challenge that

requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach from various sectors of society. This

project has delved into the intricacies of domestic terrorism, examining its various forms,

motivations, and the impact it has on communities and nations. Through the exploration of

preventative methods, it is evident that mitigating the risk of domestic terrorism necessitates a

combination of proactive strategies that span social, economic, political, and security domains.

As we conclude this project, it is evident that the fight against domestic terrorism is an ongoing

and dynamic effort. The lessons learned from past experiences, successes, and setbacks should

guide our future endeavors. The commitment to building resilient communities, promoting

inclusivity, and addressing root causes will be pivotal in creating a safer and more secure

environment for all. By embracing a holistic and collaborative approach, we can work towards a

future where the risk of domestic terrorism is minimized, and societies are better equipped to

respond to the challenges posed by extremism.

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023

 REFERENCES TAKEN

1. WWW.TIMESOFINDIA.COM
2. WWW.HINDUSTANTIMES.COM
3. WWW.GOOGLE.COM
4. WWW.WIKIPEDIA.COM

Shreyansh Gupta © 2023