Chhattisgarh Battles Naxals While Boosting Growth

According to the reports on Thursday (20 March), a gunfight between security forces and Naxals erupted along the Bijapur-Dantewada border in Chhattisgarh, resulting in the death of a District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan and two Naxals. The Bijapur police confirmed the recovery of weapons and ammunition from the deceased Naxals. A large-scale anti-Naxal operation is ongoing, with security forces closely monitoring the situation.

Amid these developments, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to present a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming the conflict-ridden Bastar region. The strategy focuses on infrastructure, industry, and tourism development to counter Naxalism through economic progress. The government believes that a combination of security operations and public participation has significantly weakened Naxal influence in the state.

CM Sai emphasized that Naxalism in Chhattisgarh is in its final phase due to coordinated police and central force efforts. He noted that these measures have improved security conditions and increased public trust in the government. The state now aims to position Bastar as an industrial and economic hub to generate employment and uplift tribal communities.

Further signs of declining Naxal influence were evident in Bijapur, where 17 Naxals voluntarily surrendered last week. Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Yadav confirmed their surrender, stating they were active members of the banned Maoist organization’s Gangaloor area committee. This trend suggests growing disillusionment among Naxals and a shift toward peace and development in the region.

References

• Security Forces Clash With Naxals as Chhattisgarh Pushes Development in Bastar