New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a fierce critique of the Maoist ideology in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing that their foundational belief—"political power grows out of the barrel of a gun"—indicates a complete disregard for serving the populace or fostering development.

"Their singular objective is to disseminate their ideology among tribal populations and seize power. There is no conversation regarding development, democracy, or advancement within their teachings," HM Shah stated.

The Minister condemned those who defend Maoist violence under the guise of justice. He questioned how individuals who breach the Constitution, take up arms, and kill innocent civilians can equate themselves with freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh and Birsa Munda.

"Such comparisons are entirely unacceptable," he remarked. HM Shah reinforced that the Modi government is dedicated to eliminating Maoism through a dual approach of security and development.

He paid homage to the security troops and civilians who have sacrificed their lives in combating left-wing extremism.

Discussing the historical context of Naxalism's emergence, HM Shah noted that post-Independence in 1947, the nation had limited resources, and the new government's administrative reach in remote tribal regions was initially weak.

Development could not extend to all areas at once due to financial constraints and inadequate infrastructure. The Maoists took advantage of this void, especially in the tribal regions of Central India, to spread their ideology among unsuspecting tribals, according to the Home Minister.

He highlighted that places like Naxalbari and Bastar became hotspots for extremism not solely due to economic challenges but also due to a mix of low literacy, minimal state presence, and lack of robust counter-ideologies.

HM Shah pointed out that regions with comparable economic conditions and literacy rates, such as Saharsa in Bihar and Ballia in Uttar Pradesh, did not experience the same intensity of Maoist influence, underscoring the significance of geographical and ideological factors.

The Home Minister reiterated the government's commitment to liberating India from Maoism by bolstering security operations while simultaneously enhancing infrastructure like roads, schools, and mobile connectivity in affected areas.

The minister mentioned his personal visit to Naxal-affected regions and extended an invitation to all Maoists to surrender their weapons. "Our government's strategy is to engage in talks only with those who renounce violence," HM Shah warned decisively.