Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that when Naxal violence was at its peak, even those who displayed the Constitution did so with trembling hands. He made the remarks while addressing a public rally in Chhattisgarh, a state that has witnessed decades of Left-wing extremism.
Congress Labeled Naxal Areas as Backward
Modi criticized previous Congress governments for merely labeling Naxal-affected regions as backward without taking concrete steps to address the root causes. He said that the Congress approach was limited to branding these areas as underdeveloped, which did little to improve the lives of the local population.
In contrast, the Prime Minister highlighted that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, under his leadership, took on the challenge of transforming these very regions. He pointed to various development initiatives, including infrastructure projects, educational programs, and economic opportunities, that have been implemented to bring peace and prosperity.
Development as a Counter to Insurgency
Modi emphasized that his government's strategy combined security operations with developmental efforts. He noted that the number of Naxal incidents has declined significantly in recent years, attributing this to the dual approach of firm action against violence and focused development.
The Prime Minister also praised the security forces for their role in restoring order. According to government data, incidents of Naxal violence have dropped by over 50% since 2014, when the NDA came to power.
Quote from PM Modi
"When Naxal violence was at its peak, the hands of those showing the Constitution were trembling. The Congress governments had left these areas to rot, but we have taken up the challenge of transforming them," Modi said, according to a PTI report.
He further stated that the NDA government's efforts have not only reduced violence but also brought basic amenities like roads, electricity, and education to previously neglected regions.
Impact and Future Plans
Modi assured that the government would continue its work until Naxalism is completely eradicated. He called upon the people to support the development agenda and reject the path of violence. The Prime Minister's remarks come ahead of assembly elections in several Naxal-affected states, where the ruling party hopes to gain ground by highlighting its security and development record.
