New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) In a monumental announcement marking a significant victory over left-wing extremism, Union Home Minister Amit Shah revealed on X that Abujhmarh and North Bastar districts in Chhattisgarh, historically known as strongholds for Naxal terrorism, are now officially free from this threat.

This achievement highlights the Modi government's firm resolve to eliminate Naxalism by the target date of March 31, 2026, as the nation enhances its comprehensive strategy. HM Shah's message, shared through his official X account, emphasized the remarkable change in these areas, which had long been impenetrable bastions for Maoist militants.

"It brings me immense joy to announce that Abujhmarh and North Bastar, once hubs of terror, have now been declared free from Naxal violence," he stated.

He also reassured that any remaining pockets of Naxalism in South Bastar would be swiftly addressed by India's determined security forces, indicating a near-total dismantling of the insurgent structure in the state.

This announcement coincides with a wave of operational successes since the BJP took control in Chhattisgarh in January 2024.

HM Shah presented striking figures: 2,100 Naxalites have surrendered, 1,785 have been apprehended, and 477 have been neutralized during encounters.

"These statistics reflect our unwavering commitment to eradicate Naxalism before the end of March 2026," he emphasized, showcasing a comprehensive approach that combines forceful action with rehabilitation initiatives.

This progress builds on notable recent accomplishments. Just yesterday, HM Shah reported the surrender of 170 Naxalites in Chhattisgarh and 61 in Maharashtra, totaling 258 extremists reintegrating into society within two days.

Earlier milestones include the neutralization of key CPI-Maoist leaders such as Basavaraju in May 2025 during Operation Black Forest, which also resulted in 84 surrenders and 54 arrests across Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.

In September, security forces took down two Central Committee members in Abujhmad, further weakening the Naxal command structure.

Experts attribute this momentum to improved intelligence sharing, strengthened border operations, and the government's surrender policy, which provides financial support, vocational training, and constitutional protections to those who renounce violence.

Shah commended the forces for their "unwavering efforts" under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that "Naxalism is nearing its end." He reiterated his call to remaining insurgents to lay down their arms and reintegrate into society or face the full force of the state.

The declaration of a Naxal-free status in Abujhmarh and North Bastar sets the stage for accelerated development in these tribal areas, which have long been deprived of infrastructure due to insurgency.

Initiatives such as enhanced roads, educational institutions, and healthcare services are already in progress, bringing hope to locals who have suffered under decades of fear.

As India moves closer to its deadline for the total eradication of Naxalism, Shah's statements resonate as both an update on progress and a rallying cry. With over 4,362 extremists neutralized, surrendered, or arrested since 2024, the campaign illustrates a firm zero-tolerance policy.

Security analysts anticipate that the liberation of South Bastar could occur within months, potentially isolating Naxalism to remote areas. This victory not only enhances national security but also reinforces the BJP's electoral promise of a Naxal-free India.

As Chhattisgarh shifts from conflict to stability, the focus will transition to sustainable peacebuilding, ensuring that former hotspots evolve into symbols of prosperity. Shah envisions a united, terror-free India by 2026.