Amit Shah Reiterates March 2026 Deadline to Eradicate Maoism from India
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing a large gathering in Jagdalpur city, Bastar district, during the closing ceremony of the cultural event 'Bastar Pandum', firmly restated the government's commitment to uproot Maoism by March 2026. In his speech, he issued a stark warning to Naxalites while making a heartfelt appeal to women cadre members to return to mainstream society.
Warning to Naxals Holed Up in Telangana
Shah began his address by hinting that Maoist elements might be seeking refuge in Telangana, urging the crowd to amplify his message. "Your voice should reach those Naxals hiding in Telangana," he declared, emphasizing the government's resolve to combat insurgency across state borders. He clarified that the conflict is not against individuals but aimed at protecting tribal villages from violence and disruption.
Highlighting the brutality of Maoist tactics, Shah questioned their methods, pointing out the harm caused by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted in farms and roads. "When they plant IEDs, don't they know a farmer will step on it and become disabled, or an innocent girl will be blown up? From where have you brought so much cruelty?" he asked, appealing once more for militants to lay down their arms and accept government rehabilitation.
Plea to Women Maoist Recruits for Rehabilitation
Expressing particular concern for female recruits, Shah praised the Chhattisgarh government's rehabilitation package and urged Maoist leaders to release tribal girls. "I worry among those remaining Naxals there are our tribal girls. I appeal to all of them to at least send these girls for rehabilitation... They have their entire lives ahead of them," he stated, assuring that surrendered individuals would be treated with respect and provided support.
However, Shah issued a firm warning to those unwilling to surrender, stating that they would face a forceful response. "If you have a weapon in your hand then you will get the answer by a weapon," he asserted, while also guaranteeing the safety of over 2,500 former Naxals who have already surrendered.
Critique of Maoism's Global Impact and Local Damage
The Home Minister criticized Maoism's destructive legacy worldwide, citing examples from Colombia, Peru, and Cambodia where it spread ruin without fostering welfare. Locally, he condemned the decades-long closure of schools in Bastar, which he said created widespread illiteracy. "What did Naxals achieve by shutting these schools? The new generation was deprived of education and a force of illiterate people was created," Shah remarked, noting recent government efforts to reopen educational institutions after 40 years.
Comprehensive Development Plan for Bastar Region
Shah unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transform Bastar into the most developed tribal region in India within five years. Key initiatives include:
- Providing electricity to all villages by December 2027.
- Ensuring mobile connectivity in every village.
- Opening post offices or bank branches within every 5 kilometers.
- Reopening primary health centers (PHCs), community health centers (CHCs), and hospitals.
- Constructing higher secondary schools and colleges.
- Connecting all villages with roads.
Additionally, he announced economic measures such as procuring paddy from tribals at Rs 3,100 per quintal, distributing cooking gas cylinders, and ensuring tap water connections in every home. With Maoism declining, new tourism projects like adventure tourism, homestays, canopy walks, and glass bridges are being developed to boost the local economy. A new 118-acre industrial area is also planned to generate employment for tribal youth.
Preservation of Bastar's Cultural Identity
Shah emphasized that Bastar's true identity lies in its rich culture and heritage, not in violence. "Guns and explosives cannot be Bastar's identity. Its true identity is its culture and heritage," he said, committing to preserve and promote it nationally and globally under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision.
The event was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Home Minister Vijay Sharma, and other state ministers, BJP MPs, and MLAs. 'Bastar Pandum 2026' featured competitions across 12 disciplines, including tribal dance, folk songs, and traditional crafts, showcasing the region's vibrant cultural tapestry.
