PM Modi credits strong political leadership for decline in Maoist violence during Bastar Diwali visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the country’s progress against Maoist violence and Naxalism as the outcome of decisive leadership, effective policies and sustained political commitment.
Addressing security personnel during his Diwali visit to a CRPF camp in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district on Sunday, Modi said government measures had significantly disrupted the financial networks supporting extremist groups.
He pointed out that action against fake currency operations had weakened the funding channels used by Naxalites and secessionist organisations, affecting their ability to sustain operations.
Recalling the extent of the insurgency in earlier years, the Prime Minister said more than 230 districts across nearly 20 states had once been affected by Naxalism. He added that confronting the threat required a carefully planned strategy and unwavering determination.
Modi said the country had witnessed a change in its approach after 2014, when his government came to power, adding that political resolve had played an important role in tackling internal security challenges.
He also highlighted the CRPF’s operational record, stating that no personnel had died in the line of duty during the previous year, marking the first such achievement in 47 years.
Bastar, once considered the centre of Left-Wing Extremism in Chhattisgarh, has experienced considerable changes in recent years. Security operations, large-scale surrenders and development initiatives have contributed to the region’s transformation.