New Delhi: Bastar in Chhattisgarh, once notorious for Naxal attacks, pit bomb explosions, and assaults on security forces, witnessed a markedly different Diwali celebration this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who joined security personnel in celebrating Diwali in this area long affected by the Naxal threat, declared that the nation’s fight against left-wing extremism has culminated in a historic victory.
Arriving at the Karampur Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Bastar, the Prime Minister celebrated Diwali alongside the troops serving national security and lauded their bravery and sacrifices. He stated that the security forces played a decisive role in controlling the Naxal and Maoist extremist menace that had posed a significant challenge to India’s internal security for decades.
Modi noted that this achievement brings new hope and confidence to millions of people who have lived for years in fear under the shadow of Naxal violence. He claimed that many districts across the country have been liberated from Naxal influence, emphasizing that this success is not merely a victory of the security apparatus but also the outcome of the people's long-term struggle for peace and development.
Addressing the grave impact of Naxalism, the Prime Minister pointed out that at one time, over 230 districts across 20 states were under the sway of Naxal operations. Numerous areas in states like Bihar, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh saw severe disruption to civilian life due to Naxal violence. He explained that Naxal activities severely hampered the implementation of development projects, establishment of infrastructure, and delivery of crucial services such as education and healthcare. Government operations were frequently curtailed, forcing local residents to live in a continuous state of fear and insecurity.
Reflecting on the period from 2004 to 2013, Modi recalled that Naxal violence had reached a critical level during which more security personnel lost their lives annually than the number of Naxalites killed. He criticized previous governments for not treating this issue with necessary seriousness and for considering it an irresolvable crisis.
However, Modi asserted that with clear security strategies, strong measures, and integrated development efforts, significant changes have been accomplished. He particularly praised the achievements of the Central Reserve Police Force in the anti-Naxal campaign, noting that in the last 12 months, no CRPF officer has died in attacks or while on duty during military operations — a first in the force’s 47-year history and a major milestone in India’s internal security record.
He attributed this accomplishment to excellent training, precise planning, use of advanced technology, strong coordination, and the unwavering determination of the personnel. The Prime Minister solemnly honoured the sacrifices made by security forces in safeguarding the unity and integrity of the nation.
Modi lauded the contributions of the CRPF, Cobra Commandos, Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), India Reserve Battalions, state police forces, Bastar Fighters, and other specialized security units. He specifically highlighted the courage and dedication of women commandos, describing them as a source of national pride. Emphasizing that female security personnel perform their duties in challenging forest terrains and hazardous situations, the Prime Minister called them symbols of India’s women power.
He stressed that the relentless efforts and sacrifices of security forces have laid the foundation for restoring normal life in areas once considered Naxal strongholds. Modi explained that the fight against Naxalism is not limited to security operations but importantly includes improving the living standards of people — including enhancing education, healthcare, transportation, communications, and employment opportunities in these underdeveloped regions.
The Prime Minister asserted that governance has regained the trust of people in Naxal-affected areas, and local populations are increasingly cooperating with security personnel and government efforts. He observed that those who once lived amid violence and fear are now moving towards peaceful living and development engagement.
Modi underscored that the 'Nation First' approach forms the basis of the country’s security policies and development initiatives. The government aims to ensure national security while fostering peace and economic progress in the lives of citizens.
Highlighting social welfare progress, the Prime Minister noted that approximately 50 crore (500 million) people have been lifted out of extreme poverty. He linked security and economic development, explaining that ending violence enables the creation of new job opportunities, investments, and infrastructure. Without peace and stability, sustainable development cannot be achieved.
He concluded that victories against Naxalism are therefore crucial for the country’s social and economic progress. Modi’s celebration of Diwali with security forces in Bastar, an area once synonymous with Naxal violence, was viewed as a politically and socially significant message.
The Prime Minister said that after years of bomb explosions, confrontations, and attacks on security personnel which severely affected ordinary life, new possibilities for peace and development are emerging in the region. Alongside honoring the courage and sacrifices of security personnel, Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for residents of Naxal-affected areas.
He emphasized that the achievements in the fight against Naxalism should not be seen merely as military victories but as an opportunity for people long overshadowed by violence and insecurity to return to peaceful lives.
By celebrating Diwali with security forces at the CRPF camp in Bastar, the Prime Minister conveyed the message that the nation is moving from a past marked by fear and violence towards a new era of peace and development.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
