Amit Shah’s Press Conference on Left-Wing Extremism: Final Phase of Combat

Left-Wing Extremism: At a press conference in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that the fight against left-wing extremism (LWE) is entering its final phase under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Shah emphasized the need for a decisive strategy to eradicate LWE by March 2026.

Left-Wing Extremism: Modi Government’s Commitment to Development

Shah highlighted that the Modi government has focused on instilling confidence in development rather than the ideology of LWE. He stressed that the administration is committed to eliminating LWE as it represents a significant challenge to India’s democratic fabric. The goal is to transition from violence to a development-oriented approach.

Decline in LWE-Related Violence

Shah reported a significant reduction in LWE-related violence, with deaths falling below 100 in 2022 for the first time in four decades. He noted that incidents of violence have decreased markedly from 2010’s peak of 1005 deaths to 138 in 2023. The government’s actions have disrupted LWE financing and strengthened national security.

Development Initiatives and Future Plans

Shah outlined ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and infrastructure in LWE-affected areas, including the recruitment of local tribal soldiers into the Bastariya Battalion. He announced a forthcoming surrender policy by the Chhattisgarh government aimed at integrating former extremists into mainstream development. The government aims to achieve complete saturation of government schemes by March 2025 and will launch educational campaigns to address illiteracy caused by extremism.