The government has said that the country became free from Left Wing Extremism after nearly six decades of violence, which was once considered one of the biggest threats to internal security.
In reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said that this has been achieved with resolute implementation of the National Policy and Action Plan to address Left-Wing Extremism 2015 and the coordinated efforts of Centre and State governments. He informed the House that at present, no district is categorized as LWE affected. Mr Rai added that the number of Naxal-affected districts reduced from 126 to 90 in April 2018, 70 in July 2021, 38 in April 2024, 8 in December 2025 and zero in March 2026.
The Minister also informed that at present, 37 districts are categorized as Legacy and Thrust districts, which are no more LWE affected, but continued support regarding security and development measures is required for some more time to consolidate the position. He informed that one district has been kept under the category of District of Concern where LWE violent activities have been totally contained and their organizational structure has been completely dismantled.
The Minister said that in the post-LWE scenario, the focus is on saturation of government welfare programmes, strengthening local self-governance, facilitating the rehabilitation of surrendered cadres and expanding the reach of governance and public services in remote areas. Mr Rai said that overall, Centre is committed for ensuring security and accelerated development of erstwhile LWE affected districts of the country.
