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Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday stated that around 9,000 Naxals had surrendered in the Northeast between 2019 and 2024, alongside numerous youths from Naxal-affected areas in Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra who have also laid down their arms.
During his interaction with surrendered Naxals in Jagdalpur, Shah emphasised the Union Government's initiatives to reintegrate former insurgents into society. He noted that when Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed him as Home Minister in 2019, a key priority was addressing the violence that had hindered development across large parts of India, including Naxal-affected regions. "From 2019 to 2024, in the Northeast alone, 9,000 people have surrendered. In Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, many youths in Naxal-affected areas have also surrendered," Shah said. He explained that the government implemented policies to facilitate the reintegration of those willing to abandon violence, offering them a pathway back to mainstream society. Shah added that the government had developed a comprehensive plan to support surrendered individuals and those impacted by Naxal violence. "In 2019, when PM Narendra Modi entrusted me with the role of Home Minister, many youths were taking up arms, disrupting their own lives and the development of regions such as Kashmir, the Northeast, and Naxal-affected areas. We decided to allow anyone who wished to surrender their weapons to do so," Shah said. "The Government of India has devised a detailed welfare plan for surrendered youth and those affected by Naxal violence. The central government has also provided 15,000 houses in Naxal-affected regions," he added. Earlier today, Amit Shah reiterated his commitment to "completely eradicate" Naxalism from the country by March 31, 2026. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Bastar Olympics 2024, Shah highlighted the substantial progress made in combating Naxalism over the past decade, citing a 73% reduction in security personnel deaths and a 70% decrease in civilian casualties in regions once dominated by Naxals. "In the past 10 years, we have tackled Naxalism on multiple fronts. Today, there is a 73% reduction in security personnel deaths and a 70% decline in civilian casualties in former Naxal strongholds. By March 31, 2026, we will completely eliminate Naxalism from the country," Shah affirmed. He credited the improved efficacy of anti-Naxal operations to the establishment of a BJP-led government in Chhattisgarh. According to Shah, during the initial years, the campaign lacked support from the state government, but after the BJP assumed power, the operations gained significant momentum. "In the first year of the BJP government in Chhattisgarh, 287 Naxals were killed, 992 were arrested, and 837 surrendered," Shah said. He appealed to remaining Naxals to surrender, lay down their weapons, and contribute to the nation's progress. "I urge all Naxals to surrender, renounce violence, and join the mainstream to work for the welfare of the country. I am proud to say that Chhattisgarh's surrender policy is the most attractive in the nation," he added. Shah also highlighted Bastar's transformation from a conflict-ridden zone to a symbol of peace and development during the Bastar Olympics 2024 closing ceremony. He described the event as more than a sporting event, portraying it as a foundation for sustained peace, security, and progress in the region. Shah expressed confidence that by the time of the 2026 Bastar Olympics, the area would undergo a complete transformation. "The Bastar Olympics is now a defining feature of all seven districts in the region. This event will mark the final chapter of Bastar Naxalism. When I attend the 2026 Olympics, I will declare that Bastar has changed," he said. The Bastar Olympics 2024 witnessed the participation of over 1.65 lakh individuals. The Union Minister also conferred the prestigious 'President's Colours' award on the Chhattisgarh Police, recognising their exemplary service and dedication to peace and security in the state. This honour makes Chhattisgarh Police the 11th police organisation in the country to receive this distinction. Addressing the event, Shah praised the force for their "hard work, dedication, bravery, and close ties with the public." "I can confidently say that the Chhattisgarh Police Force ranks among the bravest in the country. As Chhattisgarh celebrates 25 years since its formation, this award reflects your unwavering commitment, courage, and strong bond with the people," he added. Amit Shah arrived in Raipur on Saturday for a three-day visit to the state, scheduled from December 14 to 16. (ANI)
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