Raipur
Chhattisgarh deputy chief minister Vijay Sharma Sunday asserted that the state government is committed to eradicating Naxalism by 31 March 2026. Talking to media, the deputy CM highlighted the achievements of the home department and stated that sustained security operations and a robust rehabilitation push have delivered significant results in the Red Corridor.
Data shared by the deputy chief minister reveald a major blow to the outlawed outfit since January 2024. In the last two years, security forces have killed 532 Maoists, while 2,004 were arrested and approximately 2,700 cadres surrendered.
“The government’s resolve is clear. We are working with full force to ensure that Naxalism is completely removed from Chhattisgarh within the stipulated deadline,” Sharma said. He noted with satisfaction that the number of surrenders has now surpassed arrests, indicating a turning point in the decades-long insurgency.
The deputy chief minister informed that the top leadership of the CPI (Maoist) has been severely dented. During this period:
Six Politburo and Central Committee members were killed.
Two top-level leaders surrendered.
17 Special Zonal Committee members were killed, while seven surrendered and one was arrested.
Security forces also recovered around 1,100 weapons, including AK-47 rifles, INSAS rifles, mortars, and pistols, during various operations.
Focus on rehabilitation and development
The state has operationalised seven rehabilitation centres to help former rebels reintegrate into society. Around 1,700 former Maoists, including 410 women, have already completed skill training.
Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai has instructed authorities to ensure that every village in the Bastar region receives basic amenities, including schools, electricity, and healthcare. Sharma added that surrendered cadres are being provided “welcome kits” containing mobile phones and are assisted in obtaining Aadhaar, ration, and Ayushman cards.
On the legal front, the state is rapidly implementing the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS), which links police, courts, and prisons on a digital platform. While currently active in Bilaspur and Durg, the system will be expanded statewide within six months.
Additionally, the government has formed a Special Task Force (STF) in all districts to check illegal immigration and has strengthened the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) to maintain social harmony.
