Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh), 18 May (HS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday reaffirmed the Union Government’s commitment to eliminating Left-Wing Extremism from the country and building a Naxal-free society. Police officers who played a key role in combating Maoist activities in insurgency-affected regions were felicitated at a special event held in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh.

Senior officers of Telangana Police, who played a significant role in suppressing Naxalism and making Telangana a Naxal-free state, were among those honoured for their contribution and service.

On the occasion, the Union Home Minister felicitated Telangana Director General of Police C.V. Anand, State Security Advisor B. Shivadhar Reddy, DGP Operations (OCTOPUS & Greyhounds) Dr. Anil Kumar, IPS, and Malkajgiri Commissioner and former SIB IGP Sumati along with the SIB team led by her. He congratulated them for their efforts in the fight against Left-Wing Extremism.

Addressing the gathering, Amit Shah said that during an internal review meeting held in January 2024, a target date of March 31, 2026, had been fixed to eradicate Naxalism completely from the country.

He said that many had expressed doubts over whether such a goal could be achieved, but the government moved ahead with a clear vision and strategy. Shah announced that the Bastar region had now been declared Naxal-free.

Describing the development as a historic milestone in India’s long battle against Left-Wing Extremism, he said the country had faced the challenge of Naxalism for nearly three generations, from the 1970s until March 31, 2026.

The Home Minister said Naxal-affected regions had witnessed violence, developmental stagnation, and uncertainty for youth over the decades. He added that personnel from several states had made supreme sacrifices in the fight against Naxalism and credited their dedication for the achievement.

Amit Shah further stated that Naxalism had never been confined to one region and remained a concern for the entire country, including his home state of Gujarat.

He said that what was once considered an impossible goal had become achievable through coordinated efforts, determination, and sustained action by security forces and governments.

Several senior officials from the Central and State Governments, along with representatives of various security agencies, attended the programme.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar