Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], July 6 (HBTV): Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Monday interacted with commanders and commandos of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh.

This interaction came a day after Shah met the family members of senior police officer Akash Rao Giripunje in Nava Raipur. Giripunje was martyred in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast triggered by Naxalites.

On Sunday, Shah had reiterated the Indian government's commitment to eradicate Naxalism by March 31, 2026, urging Naxalites to surrender and join the mainstream.

‘I had said that on March 31, 2026, this country will be free from Naxalism, and I would like to reiterate today that the way the security forces have shown valour, we will achieve this goal,’ Shah said while addressing a gathering at the inauguration of Chhattisgarh’s i-Hub.

Appealing to Naxalites engaged in armed resistance, Shah urged them to abandon violence and contribute to the state’s development. He highlighted the Chhattisgarh government’s surrender policy, designed to reintegrate former Naxalites into society.

‘Vishnu Deo Sai has curated a very impressive surrender policy. Come and surrender, and contribute to the development of Chhattisgarh. It does not require negotiations. Have faith in the government. Surrender your arms and join the mainstream,’ the Home Minister said.

Shah praised the efforts of the Chhattisgarh government in accelerating previously stalled anti-Naxal operations. He credited Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma for providing consistent leadership and support to the security forces.

‘The biggest achievement of Vishnu Deo Sai's government and the state's Home Minister, Vijay Sharma, is the revival of anti-Naxal operations. Since the formation of the government, both leaders have not only intensified the operations but also provided strategic direction. This has boosted the morale of the police and security forces and advanced the fight efficiently,’ Shah stated.

During his visit, Shah also interacted with children from Naxal-affected areas of the state and distributed books under the state government’s Liyor Oyna scheme.

(ANI)