Raipur: In a historic first, Bastar is set to host a central zonal council meeting, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah expected to chair the high-level inter-state gathering in Jagdalpur on May 19. The meeting, which brings together four member states, will focus on enhancing inter-state coordination, bolstering security, improving infrastructure, promoting socio-economic development, and resolving pending issues among the states.
Officials have indicated that the final schedule may still undergo last-minute changes, and Raipur remains a possible alternative venue. The chief ministers of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are expected to attend the meeting, which carries significant political and administrative weight. It comes after the Centre's March 31, 2026 deadline to eliminate armed Left-wing extremism.
According to the tentative itinerary, Amit Shah is likely to arrive in Jagdalpur on the night of May 18, stay overnight, chair the council meeting the following day, and return to Delhi in the evening. The state government has already initiated preparations, with Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel requesting department-wise reports on actions taken after the previous council meeting and pending matters.
Expected Outcomes and Significance
The meeting is expected to address key issues such as cross-border crime, coordinated development projects, and resource sharing. The choice of Bastar underscores the government's focus on integrating tribal regions into mainstream development and security frameworks.
Preparations Underway
State authorities are working on logistics, security arrangements, and documentation. The chief secretary has directed all departments to submit updates on pending agenda items from the last zonal council meeting to ensure productive discussions.
