Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress party of promoting Naxalism in Chhattisgarh and other regions. He declared that changes are underway, with peace returning to areas historically affected by Naxal violence.
During a rally in Bilaspur, PM Modi launched development projects for Chhattisgarh totaling Rs 33,700 crore. He stated, “Naxalism has been encouraged in various states, including Chhattisgarh, due to Congress policies. In regions where development lagged, Naxalism thrived. What did the Congress party, which governed for 60 years, do? It labeled these districts as backward and neglected its responsibilities.”
The Prime Minister emphasized the tragic loss of lives due to Naxal violence, attributing the suffering to the neglect of past governments. “The indifference of previous administrations only added fuel to the fire. The former Congress government failed to address the needs of poor tribal communities,” he remarked.
PM Modi highlighted successful government initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which offer health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh. He asserted that conditions in Chhattisgarh are improving under the BJP-led central and state governments.
“A new era of peace is emerging in Naxal-affected regions due to development and welfare initiatives. Naxalism found encouragement under Congress’s policies,” he stated.
He also emphasized the BJP government’s commitment to constructing homes and enhancing living standards. “The housing aspirations of the poor languished in files during the Congress administration, but the BJP has made these dreams a reality. Our government not only builds homes but also enriches the lives of those who reside in them.”
PM Modi noted that public trust in the BJP is growing due to the fulfillment of promises, and he criticized Congress for the need to create Chhattisgarh as a separate state, owing to stagnation in development during its tenure. “Congress never prioritized your lives and basic amenities,” he stated.
In a significant event preceding the Prime Minister’s visit, 50 Naxalites, including 14 individuals with a total reward of Rs 68 lakh on their heads, surrendered in Bijapur. The central government has set a goal to eradicate Naxalism by March 31, 2026.
