'If they don't listen ...': Amit Shah's stern warning to Maoists

NEW DELHI: Union home minister and BJP leader Amit Shah on Friday gave a stern warning to Maoists, saying that the government is aiming to eradicate Maoism and its ideology from India within one year. During an interaction with victims of Maoist violence in Chhattisgarh at his residence, Shah urged them to give up violence, lay down arms and surrender.
"We will uproot Maoism and the idea of Maoism from this country and establish peace.The Narendra Modi government has been successful in ending Maoism in the entire country except for 4 districts of Bastar. The date of 31.03.2026 has been fixed to bid a final farewell to Maoism from this country. I assure you that Maoism will be ended before that," he said.

"I cannot retract the damage that has already been done, but I will try to ensure that innocent people don't have to face any such issues," he added.
Shah assured the victims of the Centre's full support in improving infrastructure and resources in the affected areas. He mentioned that the Chhattisgarh government has sought assistance from the central government for the PM Awas Yojana and sanitation facilities, which will be provided.
The home ministry will oversee health facilities connected to the Yojana, and a comprehensive plan will be developed in collaboration with the state government to address the Maoist problem.
"The Chhattisgarh government has requested help from the central government for the PM Awas Yojana and sanitation facilities. These services will be provided to you. The home ministry will manage health facilities linked to the Yojana, and a detailed plan will be created in partnership with the state government to tackle the Maoist issue," he said.
Shah urged those engaged in Maoist activities to surrender their weapons and rejoin mainstream society, citing the example of many individuals in Kashmir who have made this choice. He warned that if they do not comply, the government may launch a campaign to promote this change.
"Lay down your weapons and return to the mainstream--many in Kashmir have made that choice, and you can too. If not, we will initiate a campaign to encourage this change," he asserted.