Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudeo Sai believes a turning point has been reached in the ongoing battle against Maoist insurgents in the state. Several recent events and strategic shifts have led him to this assessment, fueling optimism that the decades-long conflict may finally be approaching a resolution.
A major factor contributing to this turning point is the success of security forces in neutralizing key Maoist leaders. In May 2025, a significant encounter in the Abujhmad region resulted in the death of 27 Maoists, including Nambala Keshava Rao, also known as Basava Raju, the general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist). Sai hailed this as a "huge success" and a "huge shock" to the Maoist movement, asserting that it had "broken their spine." He noted that this was the first time in three decades that a general secretary-rank leader had been killed.
Beyond the elimination of key figures, the government's strategy involves a multi-pronged approach. Alongside security operations, there is a focus on development and rehabilitation. CM Sai has emphasized the need to convert military victories into long-term development and peace. This includes improving education, employment opportunities, and overall infrastructure in the Bastar region, which has been a Maoist stronghold for years. He has also stressed the importance of aligning employment with local resources, strengthening Atal Seva Kendras, promoting agriculture, and encouraging youth participation in industrial growth.
The state government is also actively working to rehabilitate surrendered Maoists, offering them housing, skill training, and employment opportunities. CM Sai has directed that comprehensive arrangements be made for their reintegration into society, including placement camps with participation from NMDC and the private sector.
These efforts align with the Union Government's commitment to ending Maoism by March 31, 2026, a pledge made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This commitment is being backed by ongoing operations in Maoist-affected areas and a coordinated approach between the central and state governments. Union Minister Shah has stated the government is resolved to eliminate Naxalism before the deadline.
However, challenges remain. The Maoist insurgency has deep roots in the region, fueled by factors such as poverty, lack of development, and historical grievances of tribal communities. The insurgents continue to carry out attacks, such as the IED blast in Bijapur district in January 2025 that killed eight security personnel and a civilian driver. The terrain, dense forests and hills, makes security operations difficult.
Despite these challenges, CM Sai remains confident that a turning point has been reached. The combination of sustained security operations, a focus on development, and efforts to rehabilitate surrendered Maoists is creating a more favorable environment for ending the conflict. The recent successes against top Maoist leaders have further weakened the insurgency, creating an opportunity to consolidate gains and move towards a lasting peace.
