Raipur, Oct 4 (NationPress) In a momentous event for tribal representation and women empowerment, Union Home Minister Amit Shah made his way to Bastar on October 4 to take part in the age-old Muria Darbar, a pivotal ritual of the world’s longest Dussehra celebration.

This occasion marks the inaugural attendance of a Union Minister at the Muria Darbar, a traditional tribal assembly where community leaders known as Majhis present their grievances and suggestions.

Home Minister Amit Shah commenced his visit with prayers at the Rajmahal temple dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, the revered deity of Bastar.

He will soon join the Darbar, seated on a ground-laid mattress among state dignitaries, while tribal representatives will occupy chairs.

His presence highlights the Centre’s commitment to reaching out to indigenous communities and preserving tribal heritage.

In a significant welfare initiative, HM Shah will digitally transfer ₹606.94 crore to the bank accounts of 6.5 million women beneficiaries under the Chhattisgarh government’s 'Mahtari Vandan Yojana'.

This marks the 20th installment of the scheme, which provides monthly financial support to women, including 4,000 new beneficiaries from five districts in the Bastar division — Kanker, Narayanpur, Sukma, Bijapur, and Dantewada.

These women, part of the Niyed Nella Nar (Your Good Village) initiative, had been previously excluded from the scheme but were re-enrolled through 53 camps held in August.

The inclusion of these women reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that no eligible woman is overlooked.

The visit also coincides with heightened anti-Naxal operations in the region.

Just days prior to HM Shah’s arrival, 103 Naxalites surrendered in Bijapur, indicating a shift in the security dynamics. The Centre has set a target to eradicate Maoist insurgency by March 2026, and HM Shah’s presence is viewed as a strategic reinforcement of this mission.

Taking place at Sirahasara near the Bastar Palace, the Muria Darbar symbolizes the continuation of the royal court system that dates back to 1876.

Once led by Bastar kings, the Darbar now functions as a democratic forum where elected leaders, including Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and tribal elders, convene to discuss governance matters.

The venue was embellished with coconut leaves and traditional decor, showcasing the cultural richness of Bastar Dussehra.

With cultural reverence and administrative determination, HM Amit Shah’s visit to Bastar merges tradition with transformation, honoring tribal customs while promoting inclusive development.