Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that the Narendra Modi government maintains a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism, declaring in the Rajya Sabha that Naxalism will be eliminated in the country by March 31 next year. During a discussion on the operations of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shah explained how the government has utilized ‘Sanwad, Suraksha, Samanvaya’—which translates to dialogue, security, and coordination—to combat this threat.

He highlighted the effectiveness of the BJP’s approach in Chhattisgarh, where, since taking power in December 2023, 380 Naxals have been killed within a year, not including 30 additional Naxals killed recently. Furthermore, 1,194 individuals have been arrested, and 1,045 have surrendered, resulting in a reduction of 2,619 active Naxals. Tragically, 26 security personnel lost their lives during these operations. “This is the same Chhattisgarh, the same police, the same CRPF, and the same Government of India. It was merely a change in the ruling party,” Shah noted, emphasizing the shift in approach under the BJP.

Shah pledged, “We will eradicate Naxalism before March 31, 2026,” while criticizing the previous Congress-led government for its leniency towards terrorism. He stated, “The Modi government enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. In the past, no action was taken following terror attacks, and people simply moved on. We responded to the Uri and Pulwama attacks with surgical strikes and airstrikes within ten days.”

While acknowledging efforts to advance development, Shah admitted that some areas, particularly those affected by Maoist attacks, were neglected. He mentioned improvements in road connectivity and internet access in Naxalite territories, as well as the establishment of new banks and ATMs.

Shah remarked that many young people are abandoning their weapons and reintegrating into society, and noted successful agreements with extremist factions in states like Assam. He indicated that when the Narendra Modi government assumed office in 2014, it inherited numerous legacy issues from previous administrations, particularly concerning security and development, hindered by terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Leftist insurgencies, and challenges in the North East.

He pointed out that the combined toll of these issues has resulted in approximately 92,000 deaths over four decades. Shah underscored that, under PM Modi’s leadership, substantial efforts have been made to tackle these challenges—efforts that had previously been lacking.

Citing the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, Shah noted a significant decrease in terror incidents—from 7,217 between 2004 and 2014 to 2,242 between 2014 and 2024—in Jammu and Kashmir, along with a 70% reduction in terrorism-related deaths since the Modi administration took office.

The Minister disclosed that an enticing industrial policy has attracted ₹12,000 crore in investments to Jammu and Kashmir, with MoUs worth ₹1.1 lakh crore signed. He also expressed gratitude to the state police and central paramilitary forces for their sacrifices in upholding the nation’s security.

Shah highlighted that, after 76 years, law and order issues have evolved, with many crimes now transcending state boundaries, including narcotics trafficking, cybercrime, organized crime gangs, and hawala operations. He emphasized that the Modi government made necessary reforms in the Ministry of Home Affairs to strengthen national security.

In a comparison to Congress, Shah stated, “There’s a stark contrast between a government that treats Naxalism as a political issue and one that prioritizes security and development.” He committed to combating the drug problem, asserting, “Our policy is clear: we will not allow one kilogram of drugs to enter or exit the country.”

He highlighted missions Sagar Manthan 1, 2, and 3, mentioning joint operations with states like Gujarat, Punjab, and Karnataka. Through initiatives like the Spandan mission, support has been extended to those struggling with addiction, along with the establishment of a hotline for assistance.