Security – Amit Shah Highlights Bastar’s Shift Towards Peace and Growth
Security – Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday visited Netanar village in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, where he inaugurated the “Shaheed Veer Gundadhur Seva Dera” built inside a Central Reserve Police Force camp. The newly opened public service centre has been designed to support local residents and strengthen community engagement in the region. The visit marked Shah’s first trip to Bastar after authorities declared the region free from Left Wing Extremism activities.
Focus on Development and Self-Reliance
Addressing villagers, public representatives and security personnel during the programme, Amit Shah described the inauguration as an important milestone in Bastar’s changing landscape. He said the region was now moving steadily towards development, employment opportunities and economic independence after years of conflict and instability.
The event was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, state BJP president Kiran Deo and minister Kedar Kashyap. A large gathering of local villagers also participated in the programme, reflecting growing public involvement in the region’s transformation.
Shah stated that both the Centre and the state government were working together with a long-term commitment to maintain peace and ensure that development schemes reach every section of society without delay.
Tribute Paid to Martyred Security Personnel
During his address, the Union Home Minister paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives while serving in Bastar. He said the sacrifices made by soldiers for restoring peace and security in the tribal region would always remain part of the nation’s memory.
According to Shah, the efforts and courage shown by security forces helped create conditions that allowed development work to progress in Bastar. He noted that the contribution of jawans in maintaining order and protecting civilians played a major role in bringing stability to the district.
The programme also included interactions with security personnel stationed in the area. Shah praised their dedication and encouraged them to continue their service with confidence and determination.
Emotional Meeting With Families of Fallen Soldiers
One of the most emotional moments of the visit came when Amit Shah met the families of soldiers Kalendra Prasad Nayak and Pawan Kumar Mandavi, who were killed in a Naxal attack in Bijapur district.
The Home Minister spent time with the grieving family members and offered condolences on behalf of the government. He assured them that every possible administrative and financial support would be extended to them. Officials present during the interaction described the meeting as deeply moving, with Shah listening carefully to the concerns raised by the families.
The gesture was seen as an effort to acknowledge the sacrifices made not only by security personnel but also by their families, who continue to face personal loss after years of conflict in the region.
State Government Reaffirms Commitment
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also addressed the gathering and said the people of Chhattisgarh would always remember the bravery and sacrifice of martyred soldiers. He added that the state government remained committed to ensuring the welfare, dignity and security of their families.
Sai said Bastar was witnessing a gradual transformation built on trust, peace and public participation. He credited security forces for helping create a safer environment that allowed infrastructure projects and welfare programmes to expand across remote areas.
According to the Chief Minister, the administration now aims to strengthen education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities in Bastar so that local communities can benefit from long-term development initiatives.