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The Tactical Use of Civil Resistance by Rebel Groups: Evidence from India’s Maoist Insurgency

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  • Roman Krtsch

Abstract

Research on rebel behavior during conflicts has traditionally focused on the use of violent tactics. However, evidence from several intrastate wars suggests that armed groups also occasionally employ general strikes—a method of civil resistance that has typically been associated with nonviolent groups. But when do rebels resort to general strikes? I argue that these tactics have a particular function which can offset potential risks for rebels after they have suffered losses in previous battles: Through general strikes, rebels signal sustained authority to the local population. The argument is tested for districts in Eastern India using newly compiled, disaggregated data on contentious action during the Maoist conflict. The paper contributes to a burgeoning literature on wartime civilian activism in two ways: First, it shows that armed groups themselves rely situationally on civilian mobilization. Second, it investigates the effect of conditions endogenous to the conflict on these tactical choices.

Suggested Citation

  • Roman Krtsch, 2021. "The Tactical Use of Civil Resistance by Rebel Groups: Evidence from India’s Maoist Insurgency," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 65(7-8), pages 1251-1277, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:65:y:2021:i:7-8:p:1251-1277
    DOI: 10.1177/0022002721995547
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Laia Balcells, 2011. "Continuation of Politics by Two Means: Direct and Indirect Violence in Civil War," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 55(3), pages 397-422, June.
    2. Horowitz, Michael C. & Perkoski, Evan & Potter, Philip B.K., 2018. "Tactical Diversity in Militant Violence," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 72(1), pages 139-171, January.
    3. David H. Autor, 2003. "Outsourcing at Will: The Contribution of Unjust Dismissal Doctrine to the Growth of Employment Outsourcing," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 21(1), pages 1-42, January.
    4. Wood, Reed M., 2014. "From Loss to Looting? Battlefield Costs and Rebel Incentives for Violence," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 68(4), pages 979-999, October.
    5. Dasgupta, Aditya & Gawande, Kishore & Kapur, Devesh, 2017. "(When) Do Antipoverty Programs Reduce Violence? India's Rural Employment Guarantee and Maoist Conflict," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 71(3), pages 605-632, July.
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