Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the security forces for their success in eliminating 27 Maoists, including CPI-Maoist General Secretary Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju. He expressed the government’s dedication to eradicating Maoism to ensure peace and advancement for the people. The Prime Minister’s statements reflected a strong stance against insurgency and a commitment to national security.
The roots of Naxalism in Chhattisgarh can be traced back to the 1967 Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal, which sparked armed Marxist-Leninist rebellion against exploitation. The Communist Party of India (Maoist) established itself in the dense forests of Dandakaranya after Chhattisgarh’s formation in 2000. Exploiting grievances over land rights and lack of development, Maoists recruited from indigenous communities to establish “liberated zones” with parallel governance.
Maoist violence in central India was exemplified by incidents like the Jhiram Ghati ambush in Sukma, where 32 individuals, including prominent leaders, were killed. The year 2025 began with a Maoist attack in Bijapur, resulting in casualties, but security forces swiftly responded. Significant operations, such as “Operation Black Forest,” led to the neutralization of key Maoist members and the dismantling of their infrastructure.
Throughout 2025, security forces intensified efforts against Maoist activities, resulting in the neutralization of over 280 Maoists, predominantly in Bastar. Surrenders reached record levels, with a significant number of cadres laying down arms. Enhanced intelligence, drone surveillance, and coordinated deployments by central and state forces contributed to these successes, with a focus on eradicating Maoist terror by March 2026.
PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to eliminating Maoist influence, with a goal of making India Maoist-free. The year’s operations not only targeted Maoist cadres but also paved the way for development in affected regions. As Chhattisgarh nears a Maoist-free status, the government remains resolute in its efforts to ensure peace and progress for all citizens.
