At the ‘Bharat Manthan’ 2025 – ‘Naxal Mukt Bharat’ program organized by the Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation (SPMRF) in Delhi on September 28, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that India will be free of Naxalism by March 31, 2026. Shah emphasized the importance of understanding the ideological roots of Naxalism, stating that merely ending armed activities would not eliminate the problem. He questioned why Naxalism developed in India and who provided its ideological support, legal backing, and financial aid, highlighting the need to address these factors to truly eradicate the movement. The minister stated that the fight against Naxalism would not be over until society recognizes and addresses those who support Naxal ideology. He also expressed his condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the fight against Naxalism since the 1960s and offered support to those who have been part of the struggle.
Shah also addressed a recent letter that aimed to create confusion, suggesting a ceasefire and surrender. He stated there would be no ceasefire and that those who surrender would be rehabilitated by the police, without facing any violence. He criticized leftist parties for their selective sympathy, highlighting their silence on Naxal violence and questioning their focus on protecting the rights of tribal victims. He countered the argument that Naxalism arose due to lack of development, stating that Naxalism hindered development. Shah noted that 12,000 kilometers of roads have been constructed in Naxal-affected areas between 2014 and 2025.
Shah also provided data, stating that in 2024, 290 Naxals were killed in operations, 1090 were arrested, and 881 surrendered. He concluded by mentioning the abolition of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the subsequent decrease in deaths of security personnel by 65% and civilians by 77% due to the implementation of a well-planned policy against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. He also mentioned the successful panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir, with a high voter turnout.
