Diwali in Bastar: PM Modi Dances with Troops, Hails End of Naxalism
PM Modi visits Bastar to celebrate Diwali with security forces, marking the end of Naxalism across all Indian districts.
In a powerful display of solidarity and celebration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent his Diwali festivities in the heart of Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Visiting the security personnel deployed in anti-Naxal operations, the Prime Minister joined the troops in a high-energy celebration that blended traditional tribal culture with patriotic fervor, marking a historic turning point for a region once gripped by insurgency.
A Tribute to the Fallen
The Prime Minister's visit began at the CoBRA Operations Base in Karanpur, a location that has historically served as the primary launchpad for critical operations into the dense forests of Abujhmad and Bastar. In a solemn moment of remembrance, PM Modi paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) at the camp memorial, honoring the sacrifices made to secure the region.
Dancing to Tribal Beats
The atmosphere quickly shifted from solemnity to celebration as the festival of lights took over the camp. In a heartwarming scene, security forces broke into dance to traditional tribal songs, with the Prime Minister joining in the festivities. The air resonated with spirited chants of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai," as the troops and the Prime Minister celebrated together in a landscape that was once a core stronghold for Naxalites.
A Historic Milestone: Naxal-Free India
Addressing the security personnel, Prime Minister Modi declared that Diwali 2026 holds a unique significance in Indian history. He announced that for the first time, every single district in the country is now free from Naxalism, signaling a definitive victory over decades of Maoist terror.
"This Diwali in 2026 is truly special! This is the first Diwali since the nation won its decades-long battle against Naxalism and Maoist terror. This is the first Diwali where every single district in the country is free from Naxalism. This is the first Diwali where crores of our citizens have overcome the fear of Naxalism," PM Modi stated.
"You Are My Family"
The Prime Minister expressed deep emotional ties to the security forces, describing those who guard the borders and maintain internal security as members of his own family. He noted that while millions of Indians travel home to be with their loved ones during the festival, he chose to spend his time in the forests of Bastar to be with the "brave sons and daughters of Mother India."
He emphasized that the end of the Naxal menace in Bastar was a direct result of the sacrifice and dedication of the security forces, paving the way for a new era of growth.
The Path to Development
For years, Naxalism acted as a severe bottleneck for progress in Bastar. With the restoration of peace and security, the government is now poised to accelerate development across several key sectors, including:
- Infrastructure: Expansion of roads, electricity, and communication networks.
- Social Welfare: Enhanced access to healthcare and education.
- Economy: New opportunities in employment and the promotion of tourism.
The Strategy Behind the Success
The crackdown on insurgency has been led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, following a dual-track policy. The government's approach remained clear: those who chose to abandon violence and surrender were welcomed back into mainstream society, while those who continued to break the law and endanger civilians faced the full force of the security apparatus. This strategic combination led to numerous surrenders and the eventual dismantling of the Maoist infrastructure in the region.