Prime Minister Narendra Modi today celebrated Diwali with the brave security personnel in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Addressing the security personnel, Mr Modi said that this Diwali is special as the country has won its decades-long battle against Naxalism and Maoist terror. He said, for the first time, every district in the country is free from Naxalism and crores of citizens have now overcome the fear of left-wing extremism. Mr Modi described it as an extraordinary achievement and credited millions of brave security personnel for their contribution.
Prime Minister recalled that, at one point, more than 230 districts across nearly 20 states were affected by Naxalism. He said that large parts of the country, including Bihar, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, were affected by this menace. Mr Modi highlighted that between 2004 and 2013, the number of security personnel martyred every year was higher than the number of Naxalites killed. He said that the governments at the time treated Naxalism as an incurable disease and failed to address the issue. Mr Modi highlighted for the first time in 47 years, not a single CRPF jawan has lost his life on duty in the past year. Prime Minister said, this is a victory for the country’s right policies and strong resolve.
The Prime Minister said that security personnel have made countless sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the nation. He expressed gratitude to every personnel of the CRPF, CoBRA, BSF, ITBP, SSB, IRB, state police forces, Bastar Fighters and special forces, including women commandos, for their invaluable service to the nation. Mr Modi said that, guided by the spirit of service, the government has transformed the lives of people in Naxal-affected areas. He said that as a result of these efforts, even those who had suffered due to Naxalism came forward to extend their support to the government and security forces.
The Prime Minister said when the country works with the spirit of Nation First, peace and security are ensured and the nation reaches new heights of development. Mr Modi said that over the past twelve years, the country has not only won the battle against Naxalism and separatism but has also made significant progress in the fight against poverty. He highlighted that, on the one hand, 50 crore people have been lifted out of extreme poverty, while, on the other hand, Naxal violence has come to an end in the country.
