Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to convene a crucial review meeting with the Chief Ministers of states affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, on October 7. This meeting is part of the central government’s ongoing efforts to address and eliminate Naxalism, with a target date set for March 2026.
Chief Ministers from several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Telangana, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, are expected to attend. Alongside them, five Union Ministers, senior officials from various central ministries, representatives from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and the Deputy National Security Advisor will also be present. The collaborative effort aims to reinforce strategies and streamline operations in the fight against Naxalism.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Amit Shah, the central government has made significant strides in addressing the LWE challenge. The review meeting aims to evaluate progress and discuss the implementation of strategies to further reduce violence and enhance development in the affected areas.
During a previous review meeting held on October 6, 2023, Amit Shah detailed the government’s comprehensive strategies for combating Left Wing Extremism. Since the onset of the Modi government in 2014, a marked reduction in violence has been recorded, with incidents decreasing by 72% and fatalities dropping by an impressive 86%. As of 2024, a total of 202 Naxalites have been killed, and 723 Maoists have surrendered. Moreover, the number of districts classified as Naxal-hit has declined significantly, now standing at just 38.
These statistics highlight the effectiveness of the government’s approach, focusing not only on military action but also on developmental initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of extremism.
A key component of the government’s strategy is the prioritisation of development in remote LWE-affected areas. Enhancements in road and mobile connectivity are at the forefront of these initiatives, aimed at bringing essential services and opportunities closer to the affected populations. Improved infrastructure is expected to facilitate economic growth, foster education, and create job opportunities, thereby addressing the grievances that often fuel extremist ideologies.
The meeting will likely delve into these developmental strategies, ensuring that they align with security measures to create a comprehensive approach to tackling LWE challenges. By integrating development with security, the government aims to create a sustainable environment that discourages extremism and promotes peace.
As the central government continues its campaign against Naxalism, the upcoming review meeting represents a critical juncture in the battle against LWE. With the target of complete eradication by 2026, it will be essential to assess ongoing operations and adapt strategies based on the changing dynamics in affected regions.
The presence of Chief Ministers and high-ranking officials underscores the collaborative nature of this fight against extremism, reinforcing the idea that addressing LWE requires a unified approach from both central and state governments. The government’s commitment to providing comprehensive assistance to LWE-affected states signals a long-term investment in peace and development.
As the meeting unfolds, stakeholders will be keenly observing the discussions and outcomes that could shape the future landscape of security and development in India’s LWE-affected areas.
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