New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) Union Minister Anurag Thakur delivered a fierce critique of the Congress party in the Lok Sabha, charging them with rolling out a "red carpet" for Naxalites and inadvertently bolstering the Red Corridor during their tenure.

Thakur declared that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has effectively diminished the Naxalite threat, reducing their presence from 126 districts to under two.

“Currently, Naxalites are being neutralized, with many opting to surrender. We have communicated clearly: surrender and reintegrate into society, and we will provide amnesty. However, failure to surrender will lead to severe consequences,” Thakur emphasized, reaffirming the government’s commitment to eradicate Naxalism entirely in India.

The Minister paid tribute to 1,851 security personnel who lost their lives in the battle against Naxalism, also noting that over 7,000 civilians have perished due to Naxal-related violence.

He criticized the former Congress government in Chhattisgarh, under the leadership of Bhupesh Baghel, for their lack of collaboration with the Centre, despite numerous attacks on Congress leaders by Naxalites.

Reflecting on the origins of the issue, Thakur traced it back to the era of Indira Gandhi, asserting that Congress has lacked viable solutions, while the Modi administration has shown unwavering determination to eliminate the problem.

He underscored the dual approach of the government, which integrates security measures with development initiatives, highlighting the construction of schools, expansion of mobile connectivity, and infrastructure projects in tribal areas.

Thakur dismissed claims of bias, asserting that the government has aimed to uplift 25 crore underprivileged citizens “regardless of religion or caste.”

His statements were made during a session discussing internal security and left-wing extremism in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the government's notable achievements in combating Naxalism through military action and developmental efforts.

Thakur reminded attendees that Naxalism has been an ongoing issue since Indira Gandhi's time, yet Congress has failed to provide solutions. “The Modi government is the one that has discovered the solution and is committed to eradicating it,” he stated.

He reiterated that the government's strategy balances security with development. While Congress often focuses on land rights and forest issues, the Modi administration prioritizes delivering security and dignity to residents in Naxal-affected regions.

Thakur highlighted the ongoing educational and infrastructure advancements in tribal communities, reiterating that the government has never operated based on religious or caste lines. “Our efforts have been for the betterment of 25 crore impoverished citizens without bias,” he concluded.