Raipur . Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said on Friday that 532 Naxalites have been killed, 2004 arrested and 2,700 have surrendered in the state since January 2024. He also said that the government is committed to eliminating the Maoist threat by March 31. Addressing a press conference organised to highlight the achievements of the Home Department, Sharma also said that continuous security operations and rehabilitation efforts are yielding significant results in the fight against Naxalism. He said that the government's resolve against Naxalism is clear. We are working with full force to completely eradicate Naxalism from Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026.

Sharma said security forces have recovered nearly 1,100 weapons, including AK-47 rifles, INSAS rifles, self-loading rifles, light machine guns, mortars, and pistols, since January 2024. Six Politburo and Central Committee members of the Maoist organization have been killed, while two have surrendered. A total of 17 Special Regional Committee members were killed, seven surrendered, and one was arrested during this period. Sharma said he had long awaited the day when the number of surrenders would exceed the number of arrests. He described the current trend as satisfactory.

Seven rehabilitation centers are operational in the state. So far, approximately 1,700 former Naxalites, including 410 women, have completed training in various skills at these centers, while 232 are currently undergoing training. All surrendered Naxalites are provided with welcome kits, including mobile phones, to help them reintegrate into society. Sharma further stated that Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and Ayushman cards are being prepared for surrendered militants, and awareness campaigns are being organized in Raipur. The Deputy Chief Minister stated that appeals for surrender are being broadcast through radio stations in Jagdalpur, Saraipali, and neighboring states. He stated that the government's goal is to bring development to every village in Bastar, including facilities such as schools, electricity, drinking water, hospitals, and Anganwadis, and to ensure that the Constitution is followed in every corner of the region.