Amit Shah in Bastar: Appeals to Maoists to Surrender, Envisions a Naxal-Free India by 2026

Bastar, Chhattisgarh | April 5, 2025:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday issued a heartfelt appeal to Maoists in Chhattisgarh to surrender arms and embrace peace, as he reiterated the Union government’s goal of achieving a Naxal-free India by 2026.

Speaking during his visit to Bastar to attend the vibrant Bastar Pandum festival, Shah emphasized the Centre’s vision of development and prosperity for tribal regions. “No one rejoices in the loss of life, not even when it is that of a Naxal. Peace is the only way to fulfil the dreams of a flourishing Bastar,” he said.

He urged Maoists to lay down arms and reintegrate into mainstream society, stressing that development initiatives launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership can only succeed in an atmosphere of peace.

₹1 Crore Incentive for Maoist-Free Villages

Shah highlighted Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s announcement of a ₹1 crore reward for every village that becomes free of Maoist influence. “This is a call to action for communities to take ownership of peace and progress,” Shah said, inviting militants to surrender and contribute to nation-building.

A Vision for a New Bastar

He painted a hopeful future for Bastar — a land where children can attend school safely, where each village has access to healthcare, clean water, and seven kilograms of free rice per person, thanks to the welfare policies of the Modi government.

Referring to the transformation of Bastar, once plagued by violence, Shah remarked, “Today, Bastar echoes not with gunfire but with the hum of industries and the laughter of schoolchildren.”

Cultural Renaissance and Global Aspirations

Celebrating the Bastar Pandum, Shah hailed it as a symbol of tribal pride and cultural resurgence. With 47,000 artists participating this year, the festival showcased Bastar’s rich traditions, languages, cuisine, and crafts. Shah announced plans to expand the festival next year across 12 categories, aiming for international recognition.

He also expressed hope that President Droupadi Murmu, hailing from a tribal background herself, would attend next year’s celebration — a symbolic gesture of empowerment and inclusion.

Citing Development Achievements

Shah drew a sharp contrast between the current administration and previous Congress governments, citing landmark achievements:

• 4 crore houses built
• 12 crore toilets constructed
• 15 crore households provided with tap water
• 80 crore people receiving free rations
• 70 crore covered under free medical insurance

“While Congress remained inactive, PM Modi’s government delivered on its promises,” he declared.

Over 500 Surrenders in 2025 Alone

The Home Minister revealed that over 500 Maoists have surrendered so far in 2025. He reassured those willing to surrender of fair treatment and reintegration but issued a stern warning that those persisting in violence would face strong action.

Tributes and Commitment

Shah also paid rich tributes to Maharaja Pravir Chandra Bhanj Deo, a revered figure in Bastar’s history, and Babu Jagjivan Ram, a champion of social justice. He reaffirmed the BJP’s unwavering commitment to the safety and upliftment of every tribal village in the region.

As Bastar embraces peace and development, Shah’s visit and message mark a significant moment in the Union government’s campaign to eliminate extremism and promote cultural pride in India’s heartland.