Mission group concerned of Naxalite stronghold in Jharkhand

Millions of residents of Jharkhand, India, are facing illness, droughts and struggles with Naxalites, a Maoist rebel group.

So far, cerebral malaria and diarrhea have claimed 12 lives in a village of Jharkhand. Seventy people are said to have suffered from these diseases, but a Gospel for Asia correspondent said officials are "turning a blind eye" to the occurrences. The region is known to be remote and an area of primitive tribes, with hardly any transportation capable of reaching the jungle- and hill-covered areas.

A two-year drought has also been the cause of serious problems in the region.

"Villagers are fleeing from the village to other states in order to save their lives," a GFA field correspondent said. "Unable to cope with the situation, some have even tried to commit suicide."

A constant struggle with the Naxalites and other rebel groups has added to the hardships of living in the area.

The regions have been said to be a stronghold for the Naxalites for many years, and according to a GFA correspondent, the hilly terrain and dense forests make it inaccessible to security forces, creating a safe-zone for the Naxalites to consolidate their position.

The Naxalites resist any development work done by the government. They use strikes, roadblocks, kidnappings and extortion to further their cause.

"In a moment, anything can happen," a GFA field correspondent said. "So people in this district cannot predict what their lives will be like next."

Gospel for Asia supports eight missionaries serving in those regions. They have not encountered any problems so far in their ministries, but they ask for prayers concerning safety and effectiveness to reach those who are in need of salvation.