New Delhi, Mar 30 (JKNS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday accused the Congress of failing to effectively address Naxal violence during its decades in power, asserting that significant progress has now been achieved in curbing the menace, particularly in Bastar, Chhattisgarh.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a debate on efforts to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), as per news agency JKNS, Shah said the problem had once spread across 12 states forming a “Red Corridor,” leading to widespread poverty and loss of lives, including thousands of security personnel.
He questioned the previous governments over the lack of development in tribal regions, stating that despite ruling for decades, Congress failed to provide basic facilities such as housing, drinking water, education and banking access to tribal communities.
Referring to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s acknowledgment of Naxalism as a major internal security challenge, Shah alleged that no decisive action was taken at the time to curb it.
The Home Minister reiterated that the government is committed to eliminating Naxalism, noting that a deadline of March 31, 2026 has been set for ending Left-Wing Extremism in the country.
He emphasized that the present government will adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards violence, whether in Naxal-affected regions, Jammu and Kashmir or the Northeast.
Highlighting recent developments, Shah said the influence of Naxalism has significantly declined in Bastar, paving the way for development initiatives such as establishment of schools and improved public services in remote areas.
He credited the success to the coordinated efforts of security forces, including CRPF, CoBRA units, state police, and local tribal communities.
Shah also asserted that taking up arms is not a solution, stressing that grievances must be addressed through constitutional means. (JKNS)
