Union Home Minister Amit Shah has intensified the government's commitment to eradicating naxalism, which he described as the "biggest challenge" to India's democratic system. Speaking at a press conference in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Shah revealed that over the past four decades, naxalism has been responsible for the deaths of approximately 17,000 people, illustrating the devastating impact of this insurgency on the nation.
Following a series of high-level meetings in Chhattisgarh, Shah announced a decisive and final push to eliminate Naxalism by March 2026. He expressed confidence that the government’s ongoing efforts are nearing their culmination, and with coordinated and relentless action, the nation will be able to rid itself of this menace within the set timeframe.
Shah’s visit to Chhattisgarh was primarily to review the situation of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in the state and to assess the progress of inter-state coordination efforts aimed at combating Naxalism. During these meetings, Shah and senior officials discussed a multi-pronged strategy focusing on both security measures and development initiatives in naxal-affected areas. The strategy includes the complete saturation of central and state government schemes in these regions, ensuring that infrastructure projects are not only initiated but also completed despite challenges posed by naxal groups.
The Home Minister emphasized the importance of a robust and coordinated approach, highlighting that the time has come for a "final assault" on Naxalism. This, he said, would involve not just military and security operations but also the implementation of policies aimed at addressing the root causes of Naxalism, including poverty, underdevelopment, and lack of access to basic services in affected areas.
Shah’s remarks also underscored the significant progress the Narendra Modi-led government made in combating Naxalism. He pointed out that since the BJP came to power, there has been a concerted effort to bring Naxalites into the mainstream, offering them opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. As part of these efforts, 126 Naxals have been neutralized so far in 2024 alone. Furthermore, states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra have seen a marked decline in naxal activities, to the extent that they have lost their tags as naxal-affected regions.
The minister also noted the significant reduction in violence related to naxalism, with the death toll dropping to less than 100 in 2022—an unprecedented achievement that reflects the success of the government’s strategies. He mentioned that the top 14 Naxal leaders have been neutralized, which has played a crucial role in diminishing the operational capabilities of Naxal groups. This, in turn, has helped restore a sense of security and trust among the people living in previously affected areas.
Shah was clear in his determination to put a "final nail in the coffin" of Naxalism, signaling a new phase in the government’s approach that will involve both intensified security operations and sustained developmental efforts. He reiterated that eliminating Naxalism is not just a priority but an imperative for ensuring the nation's stability, security, and continued progress.
The Home Minister's bold declaration reflects the government’s broader strategy to bring about lasting peace and development in regions that have long been plagued by the scourge of Naxalism. As the government continues to implement its plans, the coming years will be crucial in determining whether this longstanding challenge can finally be overcome, paving the way for a more secure and prosperous India.
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