New Delhi – Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted on Friday that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Central Government is committed to eradicating Naxalism from India by March 31, 2026. Shah urged left-wing extremists to renounce violence and join the mainstream, warning that if they do not, a large-scale campaign would be launched against them.
Shah made these remarks during a meeting with victims of Naxalite violence at his residence in New Delhi. The group included 55 people from regions in Chhattisgarh affected by left-wing extremism, organized under the Bastar Peace Committee.
A documentary highlighting the struggles of people affected by Naxal violence in Chhattisgarh was screened during the event. Several victims shared their personal stories of hardship with the Home Minister.
Expressing sorrow over the plight of these victims, Shah stated, "The people affected by Naxalite violence are fighting for their human rights. The suffering they have endured reveals the hypocrisy of those who only make noise about one-sided human rights."
Shah criticized those who speak of the rights of Naxal insurgents killed by security forces, saying they ignore the human rights of the victims who are left without eyes, hands, or legs due to the violence. He urged Naxalites to surrender and lay down their arms, pointing out that many insurgents in the Northeast and Kashmir have already joined the mainstream.
"If you choose to surrender, you will be welcomed, but if not, we will initiate a comprehensive campaign against you and achieve success," Shah said firmly.
He emphasized that the Modi government is dedicated to completely eliminating Naxalism by March 2026. Due to government policies, left-wing extremism has been largely contained to a few districts in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. He called Naxalism a threat to both humanity and India's internal security.
Additionally, Shah announced that in the next three months, the Central Government and the Chhattisgarh Government would introduce a comprehensive development plan for the welfare of those affected by left-wing extremism. This initiative will provide benefits such as medical care, employment, and other welfare schemes to victims across the country, including Chhattisgarh.
Shah concluded by stating that through development initiatives in Naxalite-affected areas, the Modi government has sent a clear message to extremists: "Those who protect are always greater than those who destroy."
