Give up arms, surrender & join mainstream: Shah to Naxalites

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday expressed confidence that Chhattisgarh would be free of Naxal insurgency by March 31, 2026.

He urged Naxals to lay down their arms and join the mainstream, warning that failure to do so would invite strong action from security forces. He said the rehabilitation of the surrendered Naxals is the responsibility of the government.

Shah, who arrived in Chhattisgarh on December 14 for a three-day visit, is set to chair a high-level security review meeting in Raipur on Monday, focusing on the state’s security situation and developments in the fight against left wing extremism (LWE).

This will be Shah’s third review meeting on LWE-affected regions this year. He previously chaired similar meetings in Raipur in January and August.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Bastar Olympics, Shah reiterated the Centre’s commitment, in collaboration with the Chhattisgarh government, to eradicating left wing extremism. He described this mission as essential for restoring peace and fostering development in the state.

“Chhattisgarh has been the epicentre of Maoist activity, but under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, we will eliminate Maoism not only in this state but across the country. Once Chhattisgarh is free, the nation will be free,” Shah declared.

Highlighting the achievements of the Chhattisgarh Police in the past year, Shah praised their efforts in combating extremism.

“Last year alone, the police neutralised 287 Maoists, arrested over 1,000 and facilitated the surrender of 837 militants. This reflects their bravery, dedication and strong rapport with the local population,” he said.

Shah said since the Narendra Modi government assumed charge, there has been a 73 per cent reduction in the casualties in security forces and 70 per cent decline in civilian deaths.