New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah told the Lok Sabha that the country has been freed from the Naxal problem, adding that a formal announcement would be issued once the remaining final-stage actions are completed.
The Centre had set a March 31 deadline to end Naxal influence, and the issue was discussed in the House. Responding to MPs, Shah said the government had taken firm steps to bring the problem to an end.
He alleged that during the years when the Congress was in power, adequate action was not taken, and claimed that 20,000 youths lost their lives and 12 crore people were affected.
Shah said Chhattisgarh’s Bastar, described as the last stronghold of Naxals, is now returning to the path of development. He cited the setting up of schools in villages, opening of ration shops, improved medical facilities, Aadhaar coverage and access to government welfare schemes.
He added that most of the work towards the March 31 target has been completed, with a few tasks still underway, after which the government will make an official announcement.
