Amit Shah Attends Bastar Olympics Closing Ceremony, Praises Region’s Progress

Manish ShuklaDecember 15, 2024

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Bastar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah today attended the closing ceremony of the Bastar Olympics 2024, highlighting the region’s transformation from a Naxal-affected zone to a symbol of peace and development.

Addressing the gathering, Shah emphasized the Modi government’s efforts to combat Naxalism on two fronts – security and development – over the last decade. This approach has led to a 73% reduction in security personnel deaths and a 70% decrease in civilian casualties in Naxal-affected areas.

Shah announced that by March 31, 2026, Naxalism will be completely eradicated from India. He praised Chhattisgarh’s surrender policy, which has led to the surrender of 837 Naxals, and urged remaining Naxals to lay down their arms and join the mainstream.

The Home Minister highlighted Bastar’s unmatched natural beauty, stating that with the end of Naxalism, the region would become a premier tourist destination in India. The Bastar Olympics 2024, involving over 1.65 lakh participants, demonstrated the region’s transformation.

Shah described the journey of Bastar as moving from “changing” to “changed” and expressed confidence that by the time of the 2026 Bastar Olympics, the region would have fully transformed. He also interacted with former Naxals who had surrendered and heard their stories of reintegration into society.

A wheelchair race for individuals affected by Naxal violence was also organized, which Shah described as a testament to Bastar’s progress. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reiterated the state government’s commitment to Bastar’s development, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like the Bastar Olympics in connecting tribal youth with the mainstream.

Shah assured the people that Bastar is on an irreversible path to peace and progress, poised to become a model of harmony and development for the nation. With the blessings of Maa Danteshwari, he said, the region is poised to become a shining example of peace and prosperity.