Maoist conflict in Odisha (NIAS Backgrounder No. B10-2016)

Odisha is one of the poorest states of India. In terms of its socio-economic profile, it fits into the classic template of a region vulnerable to Maoist conflict. In reality too, Odisha has been prone to Maoist conflict for decades now and it is one of the major challenges confronting the state. One of the major Maoist/Naxalite groups, operating under the name of Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist), has its presence in 19 out of 30 districts of the state. The strategic topography of these districts—difficult terrain and dense forests made even further impenetrable by poor transport and communication networks—have provided safe haven for the Maoists. Persisting regional economic disparities, socio-economic deprivation, exploitative local economic structures and gradual penetration of corporate players into these hitherto inaccessible terrain have alienated the people inhabiting these neglected areas and provided the space for political mobilisation by the Maoists; who have used local grievances to consolidate their hold over these areas over the years