Amit Shah Pays Tribute to Martyrs, Vows to Eradicate Naxalism During Visit to Bastar

GG News Bureau
Bastar, 16th Dec. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday met the families of jawans who died in Maoist attacks and civilians affected by violence during the second day of his visit to Chhattisgarh’s Bastar. At Amar Vatika, Shah paid tribute to the martyrs and praised their sacrifice, saying, “Due to their sacrifice, Bastar is now Naxal-free. The country will always be indebted to them.”

Assuring the families of unwavering support, he said, “The pain of losing your loved ones cannot be diminished, but we stand firmly with you. The sacrifices of martyrs will not go in vain. Naxalism will be eradicated soon.” Shah acknowledged the immense loss suffered by the families in the battle against Maoist violence, promising to eradicate Naxalism from the land of Maa Danteshwari.

The Home Minister highlighted the efforts of security forces and the state police in curbing Maoism, noting, “In the past year, a well-executed strategy has significantly reduced the influence of Naxalism, allowing for faster development.” He added that the central government is fully committed to supporting anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh.

Shah also emphasized the three-pronged strategy being used to tackle Maoism: encouraging rebels to surrender, arresting those involved in violence, and responding firmly to those threatening lives. “We are dealing with those who choose violence in their own language,” he said.

The Home Minister praised the Chhattisgarh government’s initiative to dedicate one day a week at the Inspector General’s Office to address the grievances of martyrs’ families, proposing that district collectors also participate in this initiative. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai assured the families that both the Central and state governments are united in safeguarding their interests and would install statues of martyrs in their villages to preserve their legacy.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma expressed solidarity with the families, saying, “You are part of our extended family, and your grief is our shared pain.”

Shah also reviewed the progress of security forces in Maoist strongholds and set a deadline for forces to eradicate Maoism by March 31, 2026.