Raipur, Dec 15: On Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that both the Central and Chhattisgarh governments are dedicated to eliminating Naxalism from the state by March 31, 2026. He expressed that if Chhattisgarh becomes free from Naxal influences, the issue would be resolved nationwide.
Shah made these remarks during the President’s Police Colour Award ceremony at the Police Parade Ground in Raipur. He commended the significant progress made by Chhattisgarh police in combating Naxalism over the past year.
He praised the state’s rehabilitation initiatives for former Naxalites, urging them to abandon violence and reintegrate into society. Shah emphasized the united commitment of state leaders and the Government of India to eradicate Naxalism from Chhattisgarh by the deadline.
Shah praised the Chhattisgarh police for their successes, noting they neutralized 287 Naxalites, arrested about 1,000, and witnessed 837 surrenders in the previous year. He highlighted that, for the first time in 40 years, the number of civilian and security personnel deaths in Naxal violence had dropped to under 100.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, there has been a nationwide reduction in Naxalism over the past decade, with a notable decline of 73% in fatalities among security forces and 70% among civilians.
The Union Home Minister also made an appeal to Naxalites to cease violence and join the mainstream, highlighting the attractive surrender policy provided by the state government.
He mentioned the state’s efforts to combat organized crime and drug trafficking, citing the registration of 1,100 narcotics cases and the seizure of substantial quantities of drugs this year.
Shah noted that the President’s Police Colour was first awarded in 1951 and requires at least 25 years of service for eligibility. Chhattisgarh, formed on November 1, 2000, has received this award before reaching the 25-year mark, and Shah expressed gratitude to the President for honoring the bravery and commitment of the Chhattisgarh police.
Over the past five years, Shah mentioned he has maintained contact with the Chhattisgarh police regarding Naxalism, commending their passion, courage, and dedication.
He asserted that the Chhattisgarh police force ranks among the bravest in the nation, playing a key role in maintaining law and order, combating Naxalism, promoting drug-free initiatives, ensuring public safety, and enhancing citizens’ lives.
Additionally, Shah paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his death anniversary, recognizing him as a unifier of India at independence and praising Prime Minister Modi for continuing Patel’s legacy by integrating Kashmir with India through the abrogation of Article 370.
