New Delhi [India], March 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday assured that Naxalism will be eliminated from the country by March 21, 2026, outlining the steps taken by the BJP-led government to tackle internal security challenges. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, he elaborated on the measures taken to address terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the Naxal insurgency, drug abuse, and security issues in the Northeast.
Amit Shah stated with confidence, “I say it in this House with responsibility that Naxalism in this country will be eliminated by March 21, 2026,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to ending the Naxal problem within its current term. He also discussed the comprehensive efforts made to provide intelligence to security forces combating Naxalites, addressing the misconception that Naxalism was merely a political issue.
Reflecting on the challenges inherited from previous governments, Shah said, “When Narendra Modi’s Government was elected to power in 2014, we received several legacy issues, including terrorism in J&K, Leftist insurgency, and Northeast insurgency. These issues led to the loss of 92,000 lives over four decades, obstructed the nation’s peace and security, and hindered its development. Prime Minister Modi made well-planned efforts to address these long-standing challenges.”
Shah expressed his gratitude to the state and central forces for their sacrifices in securing the country and its borders. He also highlighted the evolving nature of crimes, noting that many incidents now transcend state borders, such as narcotics trafficking, cybercrime, and organized crime. Shah asserted that national security requires changes to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to address these multi-state and inter-state crimes effectively.
In terms of Jammu and Kashmir, Amit Shah pointed to significant changes following the abrogation of Article 370, stating, “After the removal of Article 370, the involvement of Indian youth with terrorists has almost disappeared. Terrorist glorification has ceased, and terrorists are now buried immediately after being killed. Those who previously enjoyed government perks for their association with terrorism have been removed from their positions.”
Shah also praised the Constitution’s foresight in making Article 370 temporary, allowing for its eventual removal. He lauded Prime Minister Modi for his historic decision on August 5, 2019, marking a new era of Kashmir’s integration with the rest of India.