Union Home Minister Amit Shah has declared that India will soon become free of Naxalism, crediting the strong leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the progress made so far. Speaking at a recent public event, Shah emphasized that Left Wing Extremism, which once posed a serious internal security challenge, is now in its final phase of elimination. His statement reflects the government’s confidence in its counter-Naxal strategy and its determination to ensure peace and stability across affected regions.
Read More: Mizoram Launches FOCUS 2.0 With IFAD Support
Naxalism: a decades-long challenge
Naxalism, or Left Wing Extremism, began as a peasant uprising in West Bengal in the late 1960s and gradually spread to several states. For decades, the movement disrupted governance, affected development projects, and caused thousands of civilian and security force casualties. States like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and parts of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh became strongholds of Naxal influence.
For many years, successive governments struggled to contain the insurgency. The rebels’ use of guerrilla tactics, combined with their ability to exploit local grievances, made them difficult to root out. However, Amit Shah on Naxal-free India highlights how recent efforts have significantly reduced their influence.
PM Modi’s leadership in counter-Naxal strategy
According to Amit Shah, PM Modi’s leadership has been instrumental in turning the tide against Naxalism. The government adopted a two-pronged approach—security operations combined with accelerated development in affected regions. Increased deployment of Central Armed Police Forces, coupled with improved coordination with state police, has weakened the rebels’ operational strength.
At the same time, infrastructure projects such as roads, schools, and healthcare centers have brought development to remote tribal regions once dominated by Naxals. By addressing local grievances and ensuring better governance, the government has managed to reduce the support base for extremist groups.
Significant reduction in violence
Amit Shah on Naxal-free India pointed to the sharp decline in violence as proof of the strategy’s success. Official data shows that incidents of Naxal attacks and casualties have steadily fallen over the past decade. Areas that were once strongholds have now been cleared, with security forces regaining control.
States like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, once severely affected, have reported improved law and order conditions. Shah stressed that the days of frequent ambushes and large-scale attacks are over, with the remaining groups now confined to smaller pockets.
Rehabilitation and surrender policies
Beyond security operations, the government has also introduced rehabilitation schemes to encourage militants to surrender. Former Naxal members who lay down arms are offered financial assistance, vocational training, and opportunities for reintegration into society. These measures have helped weaken the movement from within, as many cadres choose to abandon violence for a more stable future.
Amit Shah believes that these efforts underline the humane side of the government’s approach. By offering an alternative to violence, the administration hopes to ensure that surrendered cadres contribute to nation-building rather than returning to armed conflict.
Development as the ultimate solution
During his speech, Shah reiterated that development is the most effective weapon against Naxalism. The government has prioritized connecting remote villages with roads, electricity, and mobile networks. Educational institutions and healthcare facilities have also been expanded to improve quality of life in previously neglected areas.
Shah explained that when people see real progress in their lives, the appeal of extremist ideologies fades. Amit Shah on Naxal-free India highlights how these initiatives have transformed villages once under Naxal influence into hubs of opportunity and growth.
Cooperation between Centre and states
The fight against Naxalism has required close coordination between the central and state governments. Shah credited PM Modi for ensuring seamless cooperation and providing states with both financial and operational support. Security forces have received modern equipment, advanced technology, and improved training to effectively combat insurgents.
The Home Minister assured that the government remains committed to supporting states until Naxalism is fully eradicated. He also urged state administrations to continue focusing on governance and grassroots development to prevent the resurgence of extremism.
A message of reassurance to citizens
Amit Shah’s declaration is intended not just for policymakers but also for citizens who have lived under the shadow of violence for decades. By reaffirming the government’s resolve, Shah reassured affected communities that peace and stability are within reach.
His statement also signals confidence to investors and businesses, as the reduction in violence creates opportunities for economic growth in previously disturbed regions. Improved security will help attract industries, generate jobs, and accelerate overall development.
Looking ahead: a Naxal-free India
While challenges remain, the government’s progress has been undeniable. Pockets of resistance still exist in parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, but Shah emphasized that these too will be eliminated in the near future. The Home Minister expressed confidence that under PM Modi’s leadership, the dream of a Naxal-free India will soon be realized.
He added that once this goal is achieved, the country can fully channel its resources toward development, education, and welfare. For Shah, the elimination of Naxalism is not just about defeating an insurgency but also about ensuring that every citizen enjoys the fruits of peace and prosperity.
Amit Shah on Naxal-free India underscores the government’s determination to end a decades-long security challenge. Through a mix of tough security operations, rehabilitation programs, and focused development, the government has managed to significantly weaken the movement.
As Shah declared, the leadership of PM Modi has been pivotal in driving this transformation. With continued efforts, India appears closer than ever to achieving the vision of a Naxal-free nation, ensuring stability and growth for generations to come.
Read More: GST Cut on Cancer Drugs to Make Treatment Affordable
