Amit Shah Praises CRPF’s Role In Curbing Naxalism; Sets 2026 Deadline For Complete Elimination

On Thursday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for its crucial role in combating Naxalism. He asserted that India will be completely free from the threat by March 2026.

Shah spoke at the 86th CRPF Day celebration in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh. He highlighted the force’s consistent presence during internal conflicts.

“Whenever there is unrest in any part of the country, being the Home Minister, when I come to know that CRPF personnel are there, it puts me at ease. I have full trust that if the CRPF is there, the success is certain. Be it fighting against terrorists in Kashmir Valley or maintaining peace in the Northeast or confining Naxalites to just four districts – in all these things, CSPF personnel have always had a major contribution in such tasks,” he stated.

Shah recalled the force’s valor, highlighting the 1959 Ladakh skirmish with China, where CRPF soldiers fought bravely and became martyrs.

“There are many such occasions in the history of 76 years of independence, where the CRPF has protected the honour and pride of the country. On October 21, 1959, in Ladakh, only a few selected soldiers fought the Chinese army, and all of them attained martyrdom. Therefore, all the police forces of the country celebrate October 21 every year as Police Smriti Diwas,” he further asserted.

Shah also applauded the CRPF’s elite CoBRA Battalion, describing it as a symbol of courage.

“The country will be rid of left-wing extremism by March 31, 2026. The country has taken this pledge, and behind this are the brave soldiers of our CRPF,” he added.

Shah emphasized that the CRPF’s campaign against Naxalism stands as one of its greatest achievements.

“The biggest success of CRPF, which will be remembered for many years to come in the country, is that CRPF made a huge contribution in freeing the country from Naxalism. Even today, when the remaining Naxalites come to know that CRPF’s Cobra Jawans are moving towards them, their soul trembles,” Shah remarked.

Earlier in the day, Shah, along with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, inspected the CRPF parade.

The celebration featured a demonstration by the CRPF K9 squad and a wreath-laying ceremony at Shaheed Sthal in honor of fallen personnel.

He also congratulated officials recognized for their service.

CRPF, established on 27 July 1939 as the Crown Representatives Police in response to rising instability in princely states.

The 1936 Madras Resolution of the All-India Congress Committee called for a strong internal security mechanism, shaping its formation.

After India gained independence, the force was restructured and formally named the Central Reserve Police Force through an Act of Parliament on 28 December 1949.

Then Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel envisioned the CRPF as a multi-role force in a new and evolving India.

The CRPF consists of 246 battalions and operates under the leadership of a Director General. It divides into four zones – Jammu, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Guwahati – each led by a Special DG.

19 March marks CRPF Day, commemorating the day in 1950 when Patel presented the force’s official flag.

This year, the observance extended to a formal event held on 17 April.

The CRPF’s core duties include:

• Maintaining public order,
• Counter-insurgency,
• Aiding wildlife departments against poaching and illegal logging, and
• Providing disaster relief during events like floods and earthquakes

Notable specialized units within the force include:

• The Rapid Action Force (RAF),
• The Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA),
• The VIP Security Wing, and
• The Mahila Battalions

Also Read: CRPF Commemorates 86th Raising Day With Grand Event In Neemuch