Raipur: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday urged Naxalites to abandon the path of violence, join the mainstream of society, and contribute to the development of Chhattisgarh by moving forward on the path of progress.
Addressing a gathering after presenting the prestigious ‘President’s Colour’ to the Chhattisgarh Police here, Shah highlighted that the Chhattisgarh Government has implemented an excellent surrender policy, which provides for the rehabilitation of every Naxalite who surrenders.
He expressed confidence that the state will be completely free of Naxalism by March 31, 2026. The Home Minister emphasised that the government is committed to eradicating Naxalism not only from Chhattisgarh but also from other states across the country.
Shah acknowledged the bravery of the Chhattisgarh Police in advancing towards this goal and highlighted the significant achievements made in the fight against Naxalism over the past year, an official statement said.
The Minister stated that a significant progress has been made in the fight against Naxalism over the past year. Security forces have neutralised 287 Naxalites, arrested 1,000, and facilitated the surrender of 837 Naxalites. Adding that among those neutralized, 14 were top-ranking Naxal leaders.
He highlighted that for the first time in four decades, the death toll of civilians and security personnel due to Naxal violence has fallen below 100, attributing this to the government’s stringent policies against Naxalism.
Shah further stated that over the last decade, Naxalism has been effectively curbed, resulting in a 73% reduction in security personnel casualties and a 70% decline in civilian deaths compared to the previous decade. He also commended the Chhattisgarh Police for joining forces with other security agencies to deliver a decisive blow to Naxalism in the past year.
Additionally, the Home Minister pointed out that several developmental projects have been carried out in Chhattisgarh.
He stated that the Chhattisgarh Police has achieved significant success in combating organized crime and narcotics with determination. Shah highlighted that between January to September this year, around 1,100 narcotics cases were registered, leading to the seizure of 21,000 kg of cannabis, 6,000 kg of opium, and approximately 195,000 tablets of illicit drugs. Moreover, 1,400 individuals were arrested in connection with these cases.
The Minister commended the Chhattisgarh Police for earning this honour within just 25 years of its establishment, reflecting the trust it has garnered from the President.
He lauded the Chhattisgarh Police as one of the finest forces in the country, renowned for its passion, courage, valour, and dedication.
Shah emphasized that receiving the ‘President’s Colour’ during its silver jubilee year is a testament to the force’s relentless hard work, commitment, bravery, and deep connection with the public.
The Home Minister stated that the first ‘President’s Colour’ was awarded to the Indian Navy in 1951, and today, any armed force must complete 25 years of service to be eligible for this prestigious honour. He expressed gratitude to the President of India for recognizing and honouring the 25 years of service, dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of the Chhattisgarh Police.
Meanwhile, Shah also paid tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his death anniversary and said that it was Sardar Patel’s unparalleled courage and determination that unified the nation.
Present of the occasion were Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma and other dignitaries.
UNI
