Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reiterated the Central Government’s resolve to make the country free from Left Wing Extremism by the 31st of March next year. Appealing to Maoists to shun violence and join the mainstream of society, Mr Shah said that those who continue the path of armed struggle will face stern action from the security forces.
Addressing the Bastar Dussehra Lokotsav at Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh today, the Union Home Minister said that the Bastar region has long remained deprived of development due to the problem of Naxalism. However, he added that after March 31 next year, the extremists will not be able to hinder the development of Bastar.
On the occasion, the Union Home Minister launched the Mukhyamantri Gramin Bus Seva Yojana. Under this scheme, bus services will be operated on 34 routes across Bastar and Surguja divisions, connecting about 250 remote and interior villages with regular transport facilities.
During the event, Mr Shah also transferred over 600 crore rupees to the bank accounts of 70 lakh women as the 20th installment of the Mahatari Vandan Yojana of the Chhattisgarh government.
During his visit to Jagdalpur, Mr Shah offered prayers at the Maa Danteshwari temple and took part in the traditional Muriya Darbar held as part of the Bastar Dussehra festivities.
The heads of various tribal communities from across the Bastar division participated in the event and shared their issues with the Union Minister. Mr Shah described the Muriya Darbar as a symbol of democratic values and an embodiment of the faith of the tribal communities. Mr Shah also urged people to buy indigenous products.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, several members of the State Cabinet, and other public representatives were present on the occasion.