Amit Shah Declares Naxalism Nearing End, Says Bastar Freed from ‘Red Terror’
In a sharp Lok Sabha debate, Shah targets Congress and Indira Gandhi, asserting armed ideology has no place in a constitutional democracy.
During a debate in the Lok Sabha, Amit Shah stated that Naxalism or Maoism have nothing to do with development. He alleged that this ideology was spread solely to seize power through arms. Targeting former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the Congress, Shah said that during their time, this ideology was accepted, leading to the creation of a "Red Corridor" in 12 states, including Chhattisgarh, and hundreds of young people lost their lives.
The Home Minister made a major announcement, stating that Naxalism has almost been eradicated from Bastar. He said, "The people of Bastar were left behind because of the shadow of Red Terror, and development was unable to reach there. Today, that shadow has been removed, and Bastar is joining the mainstream of development." Shah also paid tribute to the security personnel and civilians who lost their lives in this fight.
Citing constitutional provisions, Amit Shah delivered a strong message. He said that if anyone feels injustice, there are remedies available in the Constitution, but taking up arms is not a solution. Shah bluntly stated, "Those who advocate Naxalism should know that those who take up arms will have to pay a heavy price. The Modi government will hold such people accountable at all costs."
Amit Shah asked the Congress what they had done for the tribals in the 60 years since independence. He alleged that the Congress had prevented schools, mobile towers, and banking facilities from reaching tribal areas because this would have affected the "illegal rule" of their ideology. Shah said that only after the Modi government came to power have tribals started getting basic amenities like housing, clean water, and education.
The Home Minister expressed confidence that Maoism in India is now nearing its end. Giving an account of the work done over the past 12 years, he said that the vigilance of the security forces and the government's development schemes have destroyed the Naxalite base. Now the day is not far when India will be completely Naxal free.