During a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the government’s initiatives to combat Left Wing Extremism, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that significant strides have been made in quelling Naxal activities in the Bastar region. He stated that the Modi government has implemented several measures aimed at fostering development in areas previously affected by Naxalism. According to him, the region is now poised for growth and upliftment.

Addressing Past Neglect

While addressing the House, the Home Minister criticized the Congress party for failing to address the needs of tribal communities during its long tenure in power. He highlighted that these communities had been overlooked in terms of development, which he attributed to the “shadow of Red Terror” that had previously strangled progress in Bastar. Shah emphasized that with the decline of Naxalism, various development initiatives are now being implemented in the region.

Development Initiatives in Bastar

Amit Shah mentioned that a campaign has been initiated to establish primary schools in every village within Bastar. In addition, measures have been taken to ensure the opening of ration shops and setting up Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) across every Tehsil and Panchayat in the region. He also noted that people have begun receiving Aadhaar cards and ration cards, with beneficiaries currently receiving five kilograms of food grains.

Critique of Opposition Parties

The Home Minister directed pointed questions at those defending Naxalism, asking why the people have not received developmental benefits in the past. He reiterated that the impediments to progress in Bastar were due to the climate created by Naxalism. Shah insisted that responsibility lies with the previous administrations, especially the Congress party, which dominated Indian politics for most of the last seventy-five years. He expressed that under the present regime, genuine development is now being realized.

Historical Context of Naxalism

Shah remarked that millions of people lived in poverty for decades as a direct result of Naxalism, leading to the loss of thousands of young lives. He articulated that the roots of Naxalism are ideological rather than solely rooted in demands for development, tracing some of its origins back to policies endorsed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the 1970s. He elaborated that the influence of Leftist ideology contributed to the spread of Naxalism across various states in India, leading to a “Red Corridor” where the rule of law deteriorated.

The Path Forward

Amit Shah stated that twelve states have been afflicted by Naxalism, affecting demographic and social structures significantly. The Home Minister pointed out that over twelve crore people experienced poverty as a consequence of these extremist activities, which he described as a national tragedy. Emphasizing the need for accountability, Shah questioned who should be held responsible for the numerous lives affected by the violence associated with Naxalism. Earlier in the day, the Lok Sabha discussed the government’s pledge to eliminate Naxalism by the end of the current month.

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