Amit Shah’s Stern Warning: Final Strike on Naxalites Imminent, Target Set for 2026, Praises Sai Government

Raipur
Union Home Minister Amit Shah issued an open challenge to the Naxalites and warned that if they do not change their ways, a final strike will be launched. He declared that India, including Chhattisgarh, will be free of the Naxal problem by March, 2026 while addressing media on Saturday. Shah mentioned that due to left-wing extremism, many people have remained illiterate, and both the state and central governments will initiate efforts to educate them. A Special Investigation Agency (SIA) will be established along the lines of the NIA. The state government will soon announce a new surrender policy. Shah praised the Vishnu Deo Sai government, noting significant successes in the fight against Naxalism in Chhattisgarh.
Shah stated that a meeting was held to discuss the longstanding Naxalite issue in Chhattisgarh and to review the implementation of the central and state governments’ plans in Naxal-affected districts, the progress of development projects, and the challenges faced. He emphasized the importance of coordination with neighbouring states in addressing the Naxal problem. Shah asserted that the time has come for a final strike against Naxalism with a ruthless strategy, stating that left-wing extremism poses the greatest challenge to the country’s democratic system. Over the past 40 years, around 17,000 people have lost their lives. Since the Modi government came to power, it has accepted this problem as a challenge.
Shah added that efforts have been made to disarm those holding weapons and to engage those who refuse to do so. Additionally, the development of left-wing extremism-affected areas has been a priority. Significant achievements have been made, including a record low percentage of deaths in 2022 over four decades. Top 14 Naxalite leaders have been neutralized. Two main objectives were pursued: establishing the rule of law in Naxal-affected areas and developing those regions.

Naxal-Affected Districts Reduced from 96 to 42
Shah highlighted that Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and, to some extent, Maharashtra have been freed from the Naxal problem. From 2004 to 2014, there were 16,000 incidents, but since 2014, there have been around 7,000 incidents—a reduction of approximately 53%. Civilian security has improved by 79%. In 2010, there were 96 Naxal-affected districts, which have now been reduced to about 42. The number of police stations has been limited to 171. Over 200 CAPF camps have been established since 2019. The financial system of left-wing extremism has been severely impacted, with a significant role played by the ED.

Extends thanks to CM Sai and Deputy CM
The Union Home Minister expressed his gratitude to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and Deputy CM Vijay Sharma for the significant success in the fight against Naxalism. A large number of Naxalites have been neutralized, and new camps have been opened. He mentioned that when the Deputy CM visits Hidma’s village to issue Aadhaar cards to villagers, it brings a sense of relief in Delhi. For the first time since independence, tribes in six villages in Sukma have exercised their right to vote. Today, security forces are not only providing security but also contributing to the development of the region.

Increased Facilities in Naxal-Affected Areas

Shah noted that over 1,500 mobile towers have been installed in Bastar to enhance connectivity. Road connectivity has been improved, with a post office opened every three kilometers. For the first time, banks and ATMs have been introduced in remote areas. ITIs have been established for skill development, and 164 Eklavya schools have been opened.

Naxalites Should Lay Down Arms, We Will Care for Them
Shah announced that a joint task force has been created among different state governments, and central government agencies are improving coordination. On the allegations of fake encounters, Shah stated that the Congress is doing its job, and so are they. Regarding peace talks, he appealed to the Naxalites to surrender and lay down their arms, assuring that their concerns would be addressed. When asked about visiting Hidma’s village, Shah said that he would go if the state Home Minister took him there.