170 Naxalites surrender in Chhattisgarh; Amit Shah declares two regions Naxal-Free

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday announced that Abujhmarh and North Bastar in Chhattisgarh, once hotbeds of Naxal activity, are now free from Naxal terror. His statement came after 170 Naxalites surrendered, marking what he called a “landmark day” in India’s fight against left-wing extremism.

The latest surrenders follow another 27 Naxalites who laid down arms a day earlier, signalling a continuing wave of peace in the region. “I applaud their decision to renounce violence and repose their trust in the Constitution of India,” Shah said.

Government’s Dual Approach: Reform and Resolve

Highlighting the progress made since the BJP came to power in Chhattisgarh in January 2024, Shah shared that 2,100 Naxalites have surrendered, 1,785 have been arrested, and 477 have been eliminated during this period. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completely eradicate Naxalism by March 31, 2026.

Shah also reiterated the Centre’s two-pronged strategy, welcoming those who surrender while dealing firmly with those who continue violence. “The message is clear: lay down arms and join the mainstream,” he said.

It is a matter of immense pleasure that Abujhmarh and North Bastar in Chhattisgarh that were once terror bases, have today been declared as free from Naxal terror.

Now a trace of Naxalism exists in South Bastar, which will be wiped out soon by our security forces.

Since January…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 16, 2025

Hope for a Peaceful Bastar

While Abujhmarh and North Bastar are now Naxal-free, Shah said only traces of the movement remain in South Bastar. He assured that security forces are working relentlessly to end the menace once and for all.

A Step Toward Lasting Peace

The large-scale surrenders mark a turning point for Chhattisgarh, long scarred by decades of insurgency. With growing faith in governance replacing fear, Thursday’s developments signal a hopeful new chapter for the region and its people.