Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while addressing a public gathering in Bastar, made it clear that the government will not initiate any discussions with Maoist factions unless they surrender their weapons. He pointed out the internal conflicts among Maoist leaders regarding the continuation of armed resistance, asserting that the only viable option for them is to disarm and reintegrate into society. Shah emphasized that both the central and Chhattisgarh governments are committed to advancing the development of Bastar and other areas historically impacted by Naxal violence. He remarked, ‘Some people talk about discussions. But what is there to discuss? We already have a comprehensive surrender policy.
Those who disrupt peace will face the combined strength of our security forces.’ The Home Minister confirmed the government’s intention to completely eliminate Naxalism by March 2026. Reflecting on his visit to the Danteshwari temple earlier that day, Shah expressed his hopes for the security forces to eradicate the ‘red terror’ from Bastar. He dismissed longstanding arguments that Naxalism emerged as a result of developmental struggles, stating that it has obstructed progress in tribal areas. ‘Today, every village has access to electricity, water, roads, toilets, insurance, and food security schemes. But Bastar still lags behind because of Naxalism,’ he noted.
Shah urged tribal families to guide misguided youth away from violence and praised Chhattisgarh’s surrender initiative, promising ₹1 crore in development funds to villages liberated from Naxal control. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment that by March 2026, no extremist group will be able to impede the rights or advancement of the region’s inhabitants.