NIA conducts raids in Chhattisgarh amid controversial accusations against Adivasi groups

By A Representative

On September 3, 2024, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) executed a series of raids in Narayanpur district, Chhattisgarh, alleging a conspiracy to assault police units and seize weapons dating back to March 2023. 

The agency has implicated 35 Adivasis in the case while identifying numerous supporters and operatives linked to the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist) during its investigations. Among those charged is Lakma Korram, leader of the Maad Bachao Manch, who has been labeled a Maoist by the NIA. 

The civil rights network Forum Against Corporatization and Militarization (FACAM) in a statement said, the Maad Bachao Manch, known for its peaceful protests against the establishment of military camps in local villages and forests, has now been classified as a Maoist front. Communication with the organization has reportedly been disrupted, raising concerns over potential arrests and further actions against Adivasis advocating under its banner. 

Stating that the Maad Bachao Manch has been at the forefront of sustained protests against the military presence and alleged extrajudicial killings by the CRPF and police in the Bastar region, critics argue that the NIA's actions serve as a mechanism for state authorities to facilitate corporate exploitation of Bastar’s resources under the guise of combating Maoism. 

According to FACAM, the prevailing information blackout in Bastar continues to hinder democratic movements, allowing peaceful protests regarding land rights and anti-militarization efforts to be mischaracterized as Maoist activities, thereby simplifying state efforts to suppress organized dissent. 

The targeting of the Maad Bachao Manch and its supporters is seen as part of a broader trend of state repression reminiscent of McCarthy-era tactics, equating social and political activism with terrorism. The government’s use of stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is perceived as a strategy to delegitimize and silence voices opposing state-sanctioned violence and corporate exploitation. 

Strongly condemning the labeling of Maad Bachao Manch and the Adivasi community as Maoist, FACAM said, the organization only called for an end to what it describes as undemocratic anti-terrorism and anti-communist legislation targeting Adivasi farmers. 

FACAM demanded the immediate release of all political prisoners and the cessation of red-tagging practices in the region, urging all supporters of democracy to speak out in favor of political prisoners' release and to oppose the ongoing Operation Kagar and Surajkund initiatives.