Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has asserted that the state government is open to considering peace negotiations with Maoist insurgents, but only if they cease all killings of innocent civilians and remove Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from their areas of operation. This statement comes amid recent indications that Maoist groups might be willing to lay down arms and engage in the political process.
Sharma has emphasized that the government has launched a decisive campaign against Naxalism, with continuous operations by security forces and strategies to ensure development reaches every village. He appealed to Naxalites to abandon violence and return to the mainstream. According to Sharma, "If peace is the goal, they must first lay down arms. The politics of murder and IED terror must end before the government can even consider talks". He further clarified that the removal of IEDs and a halt to civilian killings are the government's firm conditions for any potential dialogue, stating, "The lives of common people cannot be put at risk".
The Deputy CM revealed that the government is scrutinizing letters purportedly from Naxalites, including one from a Politburo member and another from a junior cadre associated with Telangana. He characterized the issues raised in these letters as misleading and aimed at deceiving the state government, asserting that sincerity must be demonstrated through actions, not just words. Sharma stated that there is no justification for dialogue while violence and intimidation continue.
Sharma also criticized the previous Congress government, alleging that it functioned under pressure and that honest officers were falsely implicated. He claimed that investigations are revealing instances of outsiders receiving protection in the liquor trade, with funds being funneled to the Congress office, thereby weakening the state system.
Recent reports indicate a possible shift in the Maoist stance, with some leaders expressing a desire to join mainstream politics. A letter, purportedly issued by a banned Maoist organization, hinted at a willingness to abandon armed struggle and engage in peace talks. This comes after intensified anti-Naxal operations and rehabilitation policies introduced by the state government.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has credited the Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy 2025 and the 'Niyed Nellanar' scheme for instilling hope among former Maoists. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also welcomed the shift, calling it a "positive change in attitude". However, Sharma has urged caution, questioning the authenticity of the Maoist letter.
Despite these developments, security operations continue. Recently, security forces killed a woman Naxalite carrying a significant bounty. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to rehabilitate surrendered Maoists, with initiatives such as providing homes for affected families and surrendered militants. Since the new administration took office, a significant number of Maoists have surrendered. The government has set a goal to completely eradicate Naxalism by March 31, 2026.
Amidst these developments, opposition leaders like Bhupesh Baghel have criticized the government's handling of Naxal operations. However, the government remains firm on its stance, emphasizing that dialogue can only be considered if violence ceases and concrete steps are taken to ensure the safety and security of civilians.
The state's security apparatus remains vigilant, with ongoing operations and strategies to counter the Maoist insurgency. The government is also focused on ensuring that those who choose to leave violence behind can lead a stable and dignified life, with special schemes to help surrendered Maoists reintegrate into society. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the potential for peace talks can be realized, contingent on the cessation of violence and the establishment of a conducive environment for dialogue.
