Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday ruled out any possibility of talks with Naxals, asserting that they must surrender under the government’s “lucrative surrender and rehabilitation policy.”
Speaking at the Bastar Dussehra Lokotsav and Swadeshi Mela in Jagdalpur, the headquarters of Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, Shah said that March 31, 2026, has been set as the deadline to completely eliminate Naxalism.
“Some people are calling for talks with Naxals. Let me make it clear — both the Chhattisgarh and Central governments are focused on development in Bastar and other affected areas. What is there to talk about? A generous surrender and rehabilitation policy is already in place. Come forward and lay down your weapons,” Shah said.
He added that he had prayed at the revered Maa Danteshwari Temple for the strength of security forces to free Bastar from “red terror” by March 31 next year. Those disturbing peace with weapons would face a strong response from security forces, he warned.
Calling out long-standing misconceptions, Shah said, “For years, some people in Delhi spread lies that Naxalism was born out of a fight for development. But I tell my tribal brothers — it is Naxalism that has deprived Bastar of development.”
Highlighting welfare measures, he said that electricity, drinking water, roads, toilets, health insurance of up to ₹5 lakh, and 5 kg of free rice now reach every Indian village — yet Bastar lagged behind due to Naxal violence.
“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre has given more than ₹4 lakh crore to Chhattisgarh for development over the past decade. After March 31, 2026, Naxalites will no longer be able to hinder your progress or your rights,” Shah declared.
Urging locals to persuade those misled by Naxal ideology to renounce violence, Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to tribal welfare and cultural pride.
He also described the 75-day-long Bastar Dussehra festival as one of the world’s longest and most culturally rich celebrations, symbolizing the deep-rooted traditions of the tribal community.
