Maoist rebels are groups that follow the political ideas of Mao Zedong, the former leader of China. They advocate for a revolutionary approach to achieve social and economic equality, often through armed struggle. These groups have been active in various countries, particularly in India, where they are known as Naxalites, and in Nepal, where they played a significant role in the civil war. The ideology of Maoism emphasizes the importance of the peasantry in revolution and seeks to overthrow existing governments that they view as oppressive. Maoist rebels often operate in rural areas, aiming to mobilize local populations against perceived injustices and inequalities.