Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in Jagdalpur, stated that any dialogue with Maoists was off the table unless they surrendered, emphasizing their participation in Bastar’s development thereafter. He highlighted the Modi government’s investment of more than 4 lakh crore rupees in development projects in Chhattisgarh over the last 10 years, along with numerous initiatives aimed at honoring and supporting tribal communities. Speaking at the Bastar Dussehra Lokotsav and Swadeshi Mela, Shah reiterated the commitment to eliminate Naxalism nationwide by March 31, 2026.
Shah, showing a firm stance against the Naxals, stated that security forces would respond firmly to those who disrupt the peace in Bastar through violence. He appealed to the tribal communities, urging them to convince the youth in their villages to lay down their arms, join the mainstream, and contribute to Bastar’s development. He stated that the government is dedicated to the development of the Bastar and every Naxal-affected area, inviting the Maoists to surrender, and he warned that the armed forces will strongly respond to any attempts to disturb the peace of Bastar through violence, reinforcing the goal of eradicating Naxalism by March 31, 2026.
He criticized Naxalism for hindering development, stating that it prevented progress from reaching tribal communities. He contrasted the advancements made in other areas of the country, highlighting improvements in infrastructure and social welfare programs, while acknowledging that Bastar lagged behind due to the influence of Naxalism.
Shah assured the people of Bastar that, after March 31st, Naxalism would no longer obstruct their progress or rights. He urged residents to persuade those involved in Naxal activities to surrender and join the mainstream, emphasizing the effectiveness of the Chhattisgarh government’s surrender policy. He stated that villages that become Naxal-free would receive one crore rupees from the Chhattisgarh government for development.
Shah also mentioned that he offered prayers at the Dantewari Mai temple in Jagdalpur, seeking blessings for the security forces to eliminate ‘red terror’ from Bastar by March 31, 2026. Before his address, the Home Minister participated in the traditional Muriya Darbar, a part of the Bastar Dussehra festival, where he engaged with local priests and tribal leaders.