New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) Union Minister Anurag Thakur has launched a pointed critique against the Congress party in the Lok Sabha, claiming it warmly welcomed Naxalites and exacerbated the Red Corridor during its governance.

He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stewardship, the government has effectively tackled the Naxalite issue, diminishing their presence from 126 districts to less than two.

“Currently, Naxalites are being neutralized, and many are choosing to surrender. We clearly communicated to them: surrender and reintegrate into society, and we will offer them amnesty. However, refusal to surrender will lead to severe consequences,” Thakur stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to eliminate Naxalism from India.

The Minister honored the sacrifice of 1,851 security personnel who lost their lives in the battle against Naxalism, noting that over 7,000 civilians have also fallen victim to Naxal violence.

He criticized the previous Congress-led government in Chhattisgarh, headed by Bhupesh Baghel, for its lack of cooperation with the Centre despite numerous Congress leaders being victims of Naxal attacks.

Tracing the origins of the crisis back to the time of Indira Gandhi, Thakur asserted that Congress lacks a viable solution, while the Modi administration has exhibited determination to eradicate it.

He pointed out the Centre’s dual approach of security and development, highlighting the establishment of schools, expansion of mobile connectivity, and initiation of infrastructure projects in tribal areas.

Rejecting allegations of bias, Thakur affirmed that the government has worked to uplift 25 crore impoverished citizens “without any prejudice based on religion or caste.”

His comments were made during a discussion on internal security and left-wing extremism in the Lok Sabha, reinforcing the government’s claims of substantial achievements in reducing Naxalism through both military strategies and developmental measures.

He reminded the assembly that the Naxalite issue has persisted since Indira Gandhi’s tenure, yet Congress failed to provide a solution. “It is the Modi government that has identified the solution and demonstrated the will to eradicate it,” he stated.

Thakur reiterated that the government is pursuing a dual strategy of security and development, whereas Congress focuses solely on land rights and forests.

He emphasized that while the Congress often discusses forests and land rights, the Modi administration prioritizes security and dignity for the populations in Naxal-affected regions.

“Schools have been constructed, mobile connectivity improved, and tangible development projects have reached tribal communities. The Modi government operates without discrimination based on religion or caste,” he stated.

His remarks came during a discussion on internal security and left-wing extremism in the Lok Sabha.