State police forces have been working to sell their extensive combing operations as successful given the significant outlay of troops, heavy equipment (namely helicopters), and financial resources. Meanwhile, Naxals have sent letters refuting refuting government claims of high casualties, recovery rate of stolen weapons, as well as apologizing for collateral damage.
The real effect of the Naxal operation, however, can be measured by the perception of uncertainty influencing decision making: Rahul Gandhi, being groomed to take over his family’s political party, is being forced to travel the state secretly (or utilizing one of the choppers – expensive and in short supply). The Naxals are still on the run.
