Bastar Marks New Chapter as Amit Shah Declares End of Naxalism

New Delhi, May 19, 2026 Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Bastar is finally breathing freely as the country moves towards becoming “Naxal-free” ahead of the government’s original deadline. During his visit to Jagdalpur, Shah highlighted how years of coordinated security operations and public support helped weaken Maoist influence in one of India’s most affected regions.

The announcement reflects the Centre’s push to transform conflict-hit areas through security, governance, and development. Addressing security personnel and local communities, Shah said the government had achieved its anti-Naxal mission before the target date of March 31, 2026. He credited the efforts of CRPF, BSF, ITBP, Chhattisgarh Police, DRG, STF, and CoBRA commandos, along with the cooperation of tribal communities.

He stated that the success was the result of continuous operations and sacrifices made by security forces over the years. The Home Minister also announced that around 70 security camps in Bastar would be converted into welfare and governance centres for tribal communities. These centres are expected to improve access to roads, healthcare, schools, ration facilities, and banking services in remote villages that remained cut off due to years of violence and instability.

Shah further said that the government aims to recover Bastar’s “50 years of lost development” within the next five years. With new welfare projects and infrastructure plans being launched, the region is now being projected as an example of peace and reconstruction after decades of conflict. The visit underlined the government’s message that development and stability are gradually replacing fear in Bastar.