New era of peace, devpt in Bastar CM declares North Bastar, Abujhmad Naxal-free

 

 

Responding to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s post about large scale Naxal surrenders, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai took to his X account to highlight the significant gains in the anti-Naxal campaign, in response to Union Home Minister Amit Shah post, declaration that North Bastar and Abujhmad are now free from Naxal terror, marking a ‘new era of peace and development in Bastar.’ The Chief Minister thanked the Union Home Minister for acknowledging the ‘historic success’ of the anti-Naxal campaign, citing the surrender of 258 Naxalites in the last two days as a symbol of ‘the power of faith, not guns, is winning.’ In the last 22 months, 477 Naxalites neutralised, 2,110 Naxalites surrendered, and 1,785 Naxalites arrested.

 

 

He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering resolve, stating that the goal of making Chhattisgarh Naxal-free by March 31, 2026, is now ‘very close.’ Sai credited this positive change to the double-engine government’s sensitive policies, specifically mentioning the success of: Naxalite Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy 2025 offers financial aid, employment, and security to encourage Naxalites to join the mainstream. ‘Niyad Nella Naar’ scheme, which means ‘Your Good Village’ in the local Dandami dialect, focuses on extending essential government services, welfare benefits (like housing, healthcare, and education), and infrastructure development to Naxal-affected villages, particularly those within the radius of security camps. The establishment of 64 security camps in Naxal-affected areas has not only strengthened security but has also facilitated the delivery of governance and development to every village.

 

While Abujhmad and North Bastar are declared completely free from Naxal terror, the fight in South Bastar is at a ‘decisive turning point.’ The Chief Minister appealed to all remaining Naxalites to lay down their arms and ‘step into the light of growth’ for the sake of their families and the future of their motherland, reiterating that those who continue the path of violence will face strict action. Notably, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on social media that a total of 258 Left Wing Extremists have surrendered in the past two days, marking a major success in the ongoing fight against Naxalism. Shah stated that 170 Naxalites surrendered in Chhattisgarh on Wednesday, following 27 the previous day, while 61 cadres in Maharashtra also laid down arms and returned to the mainstream. He commended the ex-cadres for renouncing violence and reaffirming their faith in the Indian Constitution. Highlighting the government’s sustained efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah said, “Naxalism is breathing its last.” He emphasized the dual approach of the government: welcoming those who choose to surrender, while taking strict action against those who continue to engage in armed activities. The Home Minister appealed to remaining Naxalites to surrender their weapons and reintegrate into society, underlining the administration’s commitment to restoring peace, development, and security in affected regions. This announcement comes amid intensified operations, security outreach, and rehabilitation schemes aimed at making Chhattisgarh and other affected areas Naxal-free by March 31, 2026.

 

 

 In a big impetus to anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh, more than 140 Naxalites are scheduled to formally surrender before Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai in Jagdalpur on Friday, October 17. The group includes senior Naxalite commander Rupesh, and the surrendering cadres will reportedly lay down more than 100 weapons. Speaking to mediapersons, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed the impending surrender, stating that a large number of Naxalites are ready to return to the mainstream. He reiterated the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, announcing a ‘red carpet’ welcome for the surrendering Naxalites. The police department has completed all necessary preparations for the ceremony in Jagdalpur. Home Minister Sharma stated that the mass surrender signals that the people of Bastar no longer desire ‘red terror’ and are instead embracing a path of development, peace, and stability.

 

He attributed the success to the State Government’s robust surrender policies and the ongoing development initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking on the political front, Sharma responded to allegations made by Congress leader Deepak Baij concerning the Jheeram Valley incident, where the state lost its leadership in 2013. Sharma claimed that the previous Congress government failed to take action on the Jheeram report for five years, asserting that the change now visible is a result of the new government’s commitment to tackling the issue. Home Minister Sharma also provided an update on the Prime Minister’s forthcoming visits to State. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Chhattisgarh on the night of October 31 and will attend the state’s Rajyotsav (Statehood Day) celebrations on November 1. Following this, the Prime Minister will participate in the national Director General’s conference to be held in Raipur from November 28 to November 30.