Amit Shah Sets Deadline to End Naxalism in Bastar, Launches Bus Service Scheme
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Chhattisgarh, setting a deadline to eliminate Naxalism in Bastar and launching a new bus service scheme for tribal areas. He also addressed the ongoing festival and the government's stance on Naxalites.
Shah declared March 31, 2026 as the deadline to eradicate Naxalism in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. He launched the Chief Minister Rural Bus Service scheme, with 34 buses planned for 250 remote villages in Bastar and Surguja divisions. The state government will bear operational losses.
Shah described the 75-day-long Dussehra festival in Bastar as one of the world's longest and culturally significant events. He dismissed Naxalism as a fight for development, stating it hinders progress in the region.
Over 450 Naxalites have been killed in anti-Naxal operations since January 2023. The Chhattisgarh government offers a lucrative surrender policy, with Rs 1 crore for development per Naxalite-free village. The central government, working with Shah, has allocated over Rs 4 lakh crore for Chhattisgarh's development in 10 years.
Shah warned that security forces will respond if Naxals disrupt peace in Bastar. He ruled out talks with Naxals, insisting they must lay down weapons and accept the government's surrender policy. The government's commitment to development and security in Chhattisgarh remains firm.
