Chief Minister Shri Say: People Chose the Path of Development, Showed Violence the Way Out
Raipur – In the first phase of the three-tier Panchayat elections in Chhattisgarh, democracy has achieved a historic feat. The Bastar division, which remained under the shadow of Naxalism for decades, is now moving towards the light of democracy. In many polling booths in Sukma and Bijapur districts, villagers are casting their votes in the gram panchayat elections for the first time in many decades.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Say said that the people of Bastar have chosen the path of development and shown violence the way out. He said that this change is a result of the strong will of the state and central governments, continuous development work, and a strong security system. This is not just an election, but evidence of the growing faith in democracy in Naxal-affected areas and the increasing steps towards a fearless society.
The lack of opposition to the panchayat elections in Bastar by Naxalites is a result of the establishment of more than 40 new security camps in the area and the government’s strategy to restore confidence among the villagers. It is noteworthy that even in Poorti, the village of Naxalite commander Hidma, villagers are enthusiastic to vote this time. This is a historic change and reflects the victory of democratic values.
Enthusiasm for voting was also seen in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagadh Chowki, Dantewada, and Gariaband districts of the state. In areas like Pusnar, Gangalur, Cherpal, Reddy, and Palnar in Bijapur, villagers cast their votes fearlessly.
Strong Roots of Democracy in Bastar, a Historic Step Towards the End of Naxalism
Chief Minister Shri Say said that the process of eliminating Naxalism in Bastar has now reached a decisive stage. In line with the resolve of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the goal is to liberate Chhattisgarh from Naxalism by March 2026. The state government is committed to connecting the citizens of Bastar with development, education, health, employment, and basic amenities. Roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and employment projects are being prioritized in Bastar, which has increased the villagers’ trust in the government and democracy.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Say said on this historic achievement that in Bastar, the victory of the Republic is happening over gun-rule. This is the victory of all those villagers who, abandoning fear, embraced democracy. This is the result of the hard work of the security forces, the foresight of the government, and public participation.
The participation of every citizen is important in this victory of democracy. He said that the successful and peaceful conduct of the voting process even in the Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh proves that the faith of the common people in democracy is growing stronger day by day. Every citizen’s participation is important in this success of democracy, and the state’s voters have shown that they are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.