Differing agendas, same tools

 

 

Your cover story about the growing threats of terrorists and naxalites is quite timely, as the country is going through a turbulent phase post 9/11 global scenario. Although, the violence by both extremist outfits should be condemned by all means, there are few fundamental differences in the politics of terrorism and naxalism. The terrorists look for soft and indiscriminate targets, only to create fear psychosis among the population; whereas, the naxalites use violence on specific targets. As the aim of terrorists is to seek revenge for perceived wrongs inflicted upon them, they lack a structured political agenda and the public support. The naxals not only have a political vision but overt support of the people and covert support of intelligentsia. But all said and done, violence by armed groups would never succeed, as they would never gain popular support.

K.S.Sundaram
Bangalore