One could be forgiven for not knowing that Maoists insurgents still survive in parts of Asia. After all wasn't Communism thrown into the rubbish bin of history sometime around 1989. If one were searching for those who still adhere to a particular form of Communist ideology then India is your destination.
The rebels have a presence in more than 223 of India's 600-odd districts across 20 states, according to the government.
There have been more than 1,400 cases related to violence by Maoists between January and August, according to official records. Nearly 600 civilians have died over that period.
The insurgents wield most influence in areas which are mostly poor and dominated by tribes people.
Called the Naxalite-Maoist insurgency for its place of origin the Indian village of Naxalbari on 25 May 1967 after a farmer was killed in a land dispute. Like similar groups the Maoists claim to be fighting for the rights of India's poorest citizens specifically the Dalits (once known as the untouchables) who are members of India's lowest Caste and the Adivasi who are considered to be the original inhabitants of India. Their tactics include targeting areas where mineral wealth exists as they are governed by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) whom the Maoists accuse of enriching themselves rather than helping those they were elected to govern.
The Communist Party India (Maoist) is the umbrella group leading the insurgency. They are not a recognized political party.
This song by Asian Dub Foundation is about the Naxilite rebellion
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