In a landmark achievement, two districts in the Bastar division of Chhattisgarh have been declared free of Naxal influence, marking a major victory in the state's ongoing efforts to combat Maoist insurgency. Bastar Inspector General (IG) Sundarraj P announced the development, attributing it to the combined efforts of security forces and developmental initiatives in the region.

Key Highlights:

Diminished Maoist Influence: Over the past 24 years of persistent efforts, the stronghold of Maoist groups in the region has significantly weakened. Security forces have reclaimed several territories previously under Maoist control, with many top leaders either killed in encounters or surrendering.

Strategic Operations: IG Sundarraj P highlighted that the proactive operations by security forces and developmental programs in interior areas have played a pivotal role in reducing Maoist activity. He stated that Naxal committees operating in the districts of Bastar and Kondagaon have been dismantled, leading to their complete liberation from Maoist influence.

Future Plans: With the success in Bastar and Kondagaon, security forces are intensifying operations in other districts of the division. IG Sundarraj expressed confidence that more districts would soon be declared Naxal-free.

Government's Commitment to a Naxal-Free Chhattisgarh

Meanwhile, at the state police headquarters, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Home Minister Vijay Sharma held a high-level meeting to discuss strategies for addressing Naxal issues. The Chief Minister was accorded a Guard of Honor at the police headquarters, where discussions with senior officials from the police, home department, and security forces took place.

Central Government's Role

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier announced a target to make Chhattisgarh completely Naxal-free by March 2026. This ambitious goal has seen a concerted effort from both central and district-level forces, and the results are beginning to show.

The Road Ahead

With the success in Bastar and Kondagaon, Chhattisgarh is taking significant steps toward eradicating Maoist influence across the state. The combined efforts of security forces and developmental initiatives are paving the way for lasting peace and prosperity in the region.