Bhubaneswar: Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday hailed security forces for decisively curbing Naxal activities, declaring that the extremists’ long-cherished ambition of establishing a “red corridor” stretching from Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh to Pashupati in Nepal will be permanently crushed by March 31.Speaking at the 57th raising day celebrations of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at Mundali in Cuttack district, Shah reaffirmed the Narendra Modi govt’s resolve to eliminate Left-wing extremism (LWE) and strengthen India’s internal security framework.“Naxal-free India is the resolve of the Narendra Modi government. I want to reassure citizens that by March 31, LWE will be completely wiped out. By defeating those who dream of a red corridor from Tirupati to Pashupati, our security forces will establish their dominance,” Shah said.Calling the current phase a historic turning point in India’s fight against Naxalism, Shah said: “We are on the cusp of achieving a new milestone. It will be a major achievement for the country’s security forces, under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, to uproot Maoists from the nation. Our forces have lived up to expectations.”He credited the security forces for their unwavering dedication, noting that despite facing formidable challenges, they carried out difficult operations with discipline and determination. Shah praised their ability to execute tough orders “with a smiling face,” underscoring their morale and resilience.Highlighting the CISF’s role in anti-Maoist efforts, Shah said: “Be it Odisha, Chhattisgarh or Telangana, CISF has made a significant contribution in our fight against LWE.”According to officials, although CISF is not directly engaged in combat operations, they play a crucial supporting role—serving as road-opening parties, securing routes for troop movement, protecting installations in Naxal-affected areas, and assisting state govts in outreach and welfare initiatives to build trust among local communities.Shah’s remarks come as the govt intensifies its campaign against Naxal groups, with security forces reporting significant gains in recent months. He emphasized that Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047 hinges on ensuring robust internal and external security. “To secure the nation both at the borders and within, the ministry of home affairs is fully prepared to play its role,” Shah said.
