Urban Naxals, next big threat to nation: Patil

 

 

 

 

“Urban Naxals is the next big threat to the nation, as they enter the society while occupying day-to-day jobs and spread propaganda discreetly,” asserted Maharashtra’s Special Inspector General of Police (Anti-Naxal Operations) Sandeep Patil during a forthright interaction at the Zero Mile Literature Festival, on Saturday as part of the ongoing Nagpur Book Festival 2025 at Reshimbagh Ground.

 

The nine-day festival is being organised jointly by National the Zero Mile Youth Foundation. The Festival segment featured a series of conversations that ranged across complex themes such as Naxalism, literature, films and society, drawing a strong and attentive audience. In conversation with journalist Ankita Deshkar, Patil shared key insights into the evolving nature of left-wing extremism in India. He said, there was a widespread misconception that Naxalite groups fight for the poor or for environmental causes.

 

“Their primary objective is armed revolution and the overthrow of the democratic system,” he stated, adding that at a time when India is rapidly progressing, Naxalism acts as a significant drag on national development. Patil highlighted the Navjeevan Colony established in Gadchiroli in 2015 as one of the country’s most successful rehabilitation models for surrendered Naxalites. He noted that the initiative has helped more than 100 young people secure employment, offering a viable alternative to violence and reintegrating them into mainstream society.

 

Speaking on urban Naxalism, Patil explained that forest-based cadres often collect extortion funds which are then channelled to urban networks, strengthening logistical and ideological support systems. However, he expressed confidence that these structures are steadily weakening. He pointed out that the Central Government has set a clear target to eliminate rural Naxalism by March 2026 and claimed that Naxalite leadership in rural areas has already collapsed. Concluding the discussion, Patil said, safeguarding the unity and integrity of the nation is not merely his official duty. “It is a passion,” he remarked, a sentiment that resonated strongly with the audience and underscored the broader themes of responsibility and commitment discussed throughout the festival.