Dantewada (Chhattisgarh): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday made a heartfelt appeal to individuals involved in Maoist activities, urging them to lay down their arms and join the path of peace and development. His call came during his visit to Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, where he participated in the vibrant Bastar Pandum Festival and reviewed anti-Maoist initiatives aimed at achieving a Maoist-free India by 2026.
Addressing a large gathering, Shah emphasized the transformative potential of peace, highlighting the government’s vision for a flourishing Bastar under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “No one rejoices in the loss of life, not even when it is that of a Naxal (Maoist),” Shah stated, stressing that the dream of a prosperous Bastar could only be realized in an atmosphere of harmony.
He painted a hopeful future where children attend school freely, villages have access to healthcare, and every citizen benefits from government schemes such as seven kg of free rice and comprehensive health insurance. “These aspirations can only come true when we collectively decide to rid our villages of Naxalism,” he said.
Shah also highlighted an incentive announced by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who pledged Rs 1 crore to any village that becomes Maoist-free. “I urge you to surrender your arms and join us in this journey of progress and development,” Shah appealed.
In a sharp contrast to previous Congress administrations, Shah listed the accomplishments under the Modi government, including the construction of 4 crore houses, 12 crore toilets, tap water for 15 crore households, free rations for 80 crore people, and free medical treatment for 70 crore citizens.
He praised the recent surrenders of over 500 Maoists this year, assuring them a place in the mainstream society while warning that those who continue violent activities would face strong action from security forces.
Reflecting on Bastar’s transformation from a conflict zone to a hub of progress, Shah noted how schools that were once deserted now resonate with the sounds of children’s laughter, and factories hum with the noise of industrial activity. “To those still entangled in militancy, persuade your comrades to surrender. We envision a new generation of professionals emerging from Bastar, Kanker, Sukma, and every corner of Chhattisgarh,” he said.
Shah also acknowledged the cultural revival in Bastar, highlighted by the Bastar Pandum Festival, which saw participation from 47,000 artistes this year. He announced plans to expand the festival’s scope next year, adding twelve new categories to celebrate the rich tribal heritage.
On a somber note, Shah paid tribute to iconic figures like the late Maharaja of Bastar, Pravir Chandra Bhanj Deo, and veteran politician Babu Jagjivan Ram, honoring their contributions to the region’s history and development.
As Bastar continues its journey towards peace and prosperity, the Union Home Minister’s message resonated strongly: the future of this once conflict-ridden region lies in unity, development, and the courage to embrace change.
