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In a significant statement in the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that the vision of a “Naxal-free India” stands as one of the most notable achievements of the current government. Highlighting the progress made over the past two years, Shah emphasized that the once-volatile “Red Corridor” has been largely dismantled through sustained security and development efforts.
Addressing members during a discussion on internal security, Shah stated that coordinated action between central forces and state police has significantly weakened Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) across affected regions. “The country has witnessed a historic decline in Naxal-related violence, and the Red Corridor is no longer the threat it once was,” he said.
The term “Red Corridor” traditionally referred to a vast stretch of land spanning several states including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and parts of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh—areas that were once heavily impacted by Maoist insurgency. According to government data presented in the House, incidents of violence, recruitment, and territorial control by Naxal groups have seen a sharp decline.
Officials attribute this success to a multi-pronged strategy combining enhanced intelligence, modernized policing, infrastructure development, and welfare schemes aimed at addressing the root causes of extremism. Improved road connectivity, mobile networks, and access to education and healthcare have played a crucial role in integrating remote regions into the national mainstream.
Shah also credited the cooperation of state governments and local communities in restoring peace. “Development has reached villages that were once cut off. Trust in governance has replaced fear,” he added.
However, opposition leaders urged caution, noting that while violence has reduced, sporadic incidents still occur and long-term vigilance remains necessary. They emphasized the need for continued investment in tribal welfare and employment opportunities to ensure that extremism does not resurface.
Security analysts have described the development as a turning point in India’s internal security landscape. While challenges persist in isolated pockets, the government’s assertion signals a shift toward normalization in areas once synonymous with insurgency.
The Home Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completely eradicating Naxalism and ensuring lasting peace and development in all affected regions.
