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By:

Abhijit Mulye

21 August 2024 at 11:29:11 am

Red flag to green steel

Ex-Maoists forge new destiny in Gadchiroli Gadchiroli: The rugged, forested terrain of Gadchiroli district, long synonymous with the violence and deep-rooted anti-establishment tenets of the ‘Red Ideology’, is now witnessing a remarkable social and industrial transformation. At the Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. (LMEL) plant in Konsari, once-feared Maoist operatives are shedding their past lives and embracing a new, respectable existence as skilled workers in a cutting-edge Direct Reduced Iron...

Red flag to green steel

Ex-Maoists forge new destiny in Gadchiroli Gadchiroli: The rugged, forested terrain of Gadchiroli district, long synonymous with the violence and deep-rooted anti-establishment tenets of the ‘Red Ideology’, is now witnessing a remarkable social and industrial transformation. At the Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. (LMEL) plant in Konsari, once-feared Maoist operatives are shedding their past lives and embracing a new, respectable existence as skilled workers in a cutting-edge Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) and pellet plant. This ‘green steel’ project, part of LMEL’s push for an integrated steel complex in the region, is functioning not just as an industrial unit but as a crucial pillar in the Maharashtra government’s surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy. So far, LMEL, in coordination with the state government and the Gadchiroli Police, has provided employment and training to 68 surrendered Maoists and 14 members of families affected by Naxal violence, a total of 82 individuals, offering them a definitive pathway back to the mainstream. The Shift The transformation begins at the company’s dedicated Lloyds Skill Development and Training Centre at Konsari. Recognizing that many former cadres had limited formal education, the company implements a structured, skill-based rehabilitation model. They are trained in essential technical and operational skills required for plant administration, civil construction, and mechanical operations. For individuals like Govinda Atala, a former deputy commander, the change is palpable. “After surrendering, I got the right to live a new life,” Atala said. “I am very happy to get this job. I am now living my life on my own; there is no pressure on me now.” Suresh Hichame, who spent over a decade in the movement before surrendering in 2009 too echoed the sentiments. He realized the path of violence offered neither him nor his family any benefit. Moreover, his self-respecct was hurt. He knew several languages and carried out several crucial tasks for the banned organization remaining constantly under the shadow of death. Today, he works in the plant, receiving a steady monthly salary that enables him to care for his family—a basic dignity the ‘Red Ideology’ could never provide. The monthly salaries of the rehabilitated workers, typically ranging from Rs 13,000 to Rs 20,000, are revolutionary in a region long characterized by poverty and lack of opportunities. Trust, Stability The employment of former Maoists is a brave and calculated risk for LMEL, an industry that historically faced stiff opposition and even violence from the left wing extremist groups. LMEL’s management, however, sees it as an investment in inclusive growth and long-term stability for the district. The LMEL has emphasized the company’s commitment to training and facilitating career growth for the local populace, including the surrendered cadres. This commitment to local workforce upskilling is proving to be a highly effective counter-insurgency strategy, chipping away at the foundation of the Maoist movement: the exploitation of local grievances and lack of economic options. The reintegration effort extends beyond the factory floor. By providing stable incomes and a sense of purpose, LMEL helps the former rebels navigate the social transition. They are now homeowners, taxpayers, and active members of the community, replacing the identity of an outlaw with that of a respected employee. This social acceptance, coupled with economic independence, is the true measure of rehabilitation. The successful employment of cadres, some of whom were once high-ranking commanders, also sends a powerful message to those still active in the jungle: the path to a peaceful and prosperous life is open and tangible. It transforms the promise of government rehabilitation into a concrete reality. The plant, with its production of iron ore and steel, is physically transforming the region into an emerging industrial hub, and in doing so, it is symbolically forging the nation’s progress out of the ashes of extremism. The coordinated effort between private industry, the state government, and the Gadchiroli police is establishing a new environment of trust, stability, and economic progress, marking Gadchiroli’s transition from a Maoist hotbed to a model of inclusive and sustainable development.

Pahalgam attack aftermath: Kashmiri students threatened, businesses hit as tensions rise

Updated: Apr 28


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Srinagar: After the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, which killed 26 tourists, Kashmiri students across India have been facing threats, harassment, and violence.


Several incidents have been reported in different states where students were attacked, forced out of hostels, called terrorists, and warned to leave immediately or face consequences.


At Arni University in Himachal Pradesh, hostel doors were broken by outsiders who abused Kashmiri students. In Dehradun, Uttarakhand, a Hindu Raksha Dal video went viral, warning Kashmiris to leave or be killed, forcing many students to pack up and flee.


In Derabassi, Punjab, attackers entered a hostel after midnight, tore students’ clothes, and injured a student with a sharp weapon. In Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, some landlords asked Kashmiri tenants to vacate their homes. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has called these attacks a targeted hate campaign.


Its convenor, Nasir Khuehami, said this is a planned move to harass Kashmiris and is not just a reaction to the terror attack. He appealed to state governments and national leaders to act quickly and ensure the safety of Kashmiri students. Students have been advised to stay indoors, avoid political arguments, and not post anything sensitive on social media. Police in Dehradun have increased patrolling and removed over two dozen social media posts that promoted violence.


The situation between India and Pakistan has also worsened after the attack. India has accused Pakistan of sheltering terrorists behind the attack and suspended several agreements, including the Indus Waters Treaty. Visa services have been cancelled, diplomatic ties have been downgraded, and cross-border trade has been stopped. Pakistan has also retaliated by closing its airspace, halting trade with India, and cutting diplomatic contacts. Both countries are in a tense standoff, and peace talks have completely broken down.


The tension is badly hitting Kashmiri businesses, especially in tourism and trade. Tour bookings to Kashmir are being cancelled, handicraft orders have been put on hold, and many goods are stuck due to the shutdown of trade routes. According to local businessmen, they are suffering huge losses and fear that the situation could get worse in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, security forces have launched large-scale operations against terrorists in Kashmir.


Army and police units have stepped up search operations across southern districts like Anantnag, Shopian, and Pulwama. The army has increased its presence in sensitive areas to prevent further attacks. Officials say they are working to dismantle the network behind the Pahalgam attack and prevent any future strikes.


Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti have condemned both the terror attack and the violence against Kashmiri students. They have urged the government of India to ensure that innocent Kashmiris are not punished for the acts of a few. Political leaders and student groups are also appealing to citizens to maintain peace and not fall for hate propaganda being spread online. The situation remains tense but under close watch. Both sides, however, remain on high alert.

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