The figures for casualties in Naxal-related violence till October 31 this year offer some consolation for the Government, but they also indicate a shift in extremist strategy, with politicians and economic installations emerging as their main targets.

As the Centre pushes for greater coordination and joint action between the worst-affected states, this could be worrisome for the Government.

Till October 31 this year, there have been 1,285 Naxalite incidents, involving 571 casualties. The number for the corresponding period in 2006 was the same but the casualties were higher, at 610.

But two distinct trends have senior officials of the Union Home Ministry worried. The first is that the Naxalites have kept their word on attacking economic installations and projects. “Their latest strategy is to hit at installations like power transmission lines, which creates maximum impact among the people,” an official said. This was one of the highlights of the two-day economic blockade called by the Naxalites in June this year. Roads and rail transport have also come under repeated attack.

The other is the continued targeting of politicians. It began with the killing of JMM MP Sunil Mahato in March this year. Jharkhand saw another attack last month, when former chief minister Babulal Marandi’s son Anup Marandi was killed during a cultural programme. The actual target was the former CM’s brother who is part of a civilian movement against Naxalism. Attacks on Salwa Judum, the civilian militia against Naxalism, also continue in Chhattisgarh.

The Government too has revised its strategies. Realising that focusing on 33 districts in eight Naxal-affected states was not showing the desired results, the Centre has decided to concentrate on eight districts in four states —- Aurangabad and Gaya in Bihar, Malkangiri and Raygada in Orissa, Bijapur and Dantewara in Chhattisgarh and Chhatra and Palamau in Jharkhand.

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