Union Home Minister Amit Shah renewed his appeal to Maoists in Bastar to abandon violence and join India’s development journey. He stressed that the government’s campaign against Naxalism targets insecurity, not individuals.
The Minister stated the priority remains the safety, dignity, and future of tribal villages.
HM Shah addressed a large gathering of tribal residents in Jagdalpur on Monday. He spoke at the closing ceremony of the Bastar Pandum festival.
Amit Shah urged armed cadres to surrender and return to civilian life. He assured them of respectful rehabilitation under the state’s generous surrender policy.
The Minister further noted that over 2,500 people have already renounced violence.
At the same time, HM Shah issued a firm warning. He said the state will act decisively against those who plant improvised explosive devices, attack villages, or destroy schools.
Shah made it clear that violence will face strong resistance. He further added that Maoism has only caused destruction and deprivation.
Highlighting rapid change, HM Shah said Bastar now stands as a symbol of transformation.
Schools closed for decades have reopened. He promised that within five years, Bastar would emerge as Chhattisgarh’s most developed division.
By December 27, every village will have access to electricity, mobile connectivity, and hospitals, colleges, post offices, and other essential services.
The government will procure the entire paddy output of tribal farmers. It will also provide free rice, cooking gas cylinders, and piped drinking water.
HM Shah said Bastar will unlock new livelihoods once Naxalism ends. He further cited adventure tourism, homestays, canopy walks, and glass bridges as future growth engines.
The Minister announced major infrastructure initiatives. These include a 118-acre industrial zone and an irrigation project with 120 megawatts of power generation on the Indravati River.
The government is also constructing the ₹3,500-crore Raoghat-Jagdalpur railway line. River interlinking projects and skill training for 90,000 youth are also underway.
HM Shah described a visible social shift. Bastar has moved from curfews and fear to nights filled with music, dance, and confidence. He celebrated the region’s tribal diversity and ancient traditions. He praised the Bastar Pandum festival for showcasing this heritage nationally.
HM Amit Shah announced that the winning cultural teams will perform at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He also honoured the sacrifices of Chhattisgarh Police, DRG, CRPF, ITBP, and BSF personnel.
Home Minister Amit Shah expressed confidence that Bastar will soon be free of Naxalism.
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