Amit Shah Proclaims Abujhmarh And North Bastar Free From Naxal Influence Following Major Surrenders

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that Abujhmarh and North Bastar in Chhattisgarh are now free from Naxal influence. This declaration followed the surrender of 170 Maoists. Shah described this as a "landmark day" in the battle against left-wing extremism, highlighting the recent surrender of 258 extremists across different states.

Since January 2024, when the BJP government assumed power in Chhattisgarh, significant progress has been made against Naxalism. A total of 2,100 Naxalites have surrendered, 1,785 have been arrested, and 477 have been eliminated. These figures underscore the government's commitment to eradicating Naxalism by March 31, 2026.

Recent Surrenders and Government's Stance

The latest surrender involved 27 Maoists in Sukma district, including members from the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion-01. Shah praised those who chose to abandon violence and trust India's Constitution. He stated that these actions indicate that Naxalism is nearing its end due to persistent efforts by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.

Shah emphasized that only remnants of Naxalism remain in South Bastar. He assured that security forces are determined to eliminate these traces soon. "Now a trace of Naxalism exists in South Bastar, which will be wiped out soon by our security forces," he added.

Appeal to Remaining Naxals

The Home Minister urged remaining Naxals to surrender their weapons and join mainstream society. He reiterated the government's clear policy: welcoming those who lay down arms while taking firm action against those who persist with violence. "Our policy is clear: those who want to surrender are welcome, and those who continue to wield the gun will meet the wrath of our forces," he said.

Shah expressed satisfaction over declaring Abujhmarh and North Bastar as free from Naxal terror. "It is a matter of immense pleasure that Abujhmarh and North Bastar in Chhattisgarh that were once terror bases, have today been declared as free from Naxal terror," he remarked.

The government's strategy involves both encouraging surrenders and maintaining strong measures against ongoing violence. The recent developments reflect a significant shift towards peace in regions previously affected by insurgency.