Naxalites are members of a militant communist group in India, inspired by the ideology of Mao Zedong. They advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly in rural areas, and seek to overthrow the Indian government through armed struggle. The movement began in the late 1960s in a village called Naxalbari in West Bengal, which is how they got their name. The Naxalite movement has spread to various states, particularly in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha, where they often clash with security forces. The Indian government classifies them as a terrorist organization, citing violence and disruption in affected regions. The conflict has led to significant social and economic challenges in these areas.