TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 25, 2024: The Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee has criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah for allegedly distorting facts about Naxalism in a recent press conference. Sushil Anand Shukla, President of the State Congress Communication Department, accused Shah of politicizing the issue and misrepresenting the progress made under the Congress government.
Shukla highlighted that Shah himself acknowledged a significant reduction in Naxalite incidents during the Bhupesh Baghel administration in April 2021. Shah had noted a reduction of up to 80 percent in Naxalite activities, and the DGP of the RPF had remarked on the near eradication of Naxalism in the state. Shukla questioned why Shah is now criticizing the Congress government’s efforts.
Under the Congress government, Shukla asserted that Naxalism had been effectively controlled through measures focused on trust, development, and security. These efforts included establishing camps in remote areas, constructing roads and bridges, opening schools and hospitals, and enhancing local infrastructure. This approach reportedly led to increased public trust and reduced Naxalite activities.
Shukla also accused Shah of remaining silent about alleged fake encounters involving local tribals in Bastar under the current BJP government. He claimed that over 30 tribals have been killed in such encounters over the past eight months, including 10 individuals in an alleged encounter in Pidia, Bijapur on May 10. The deceased, identified as local villagers through their MNREGA job cards, Aadhaar cards, and ration cards, were reportedly killed despite climbing trees to escape. Shukla criticized the BJP government for refusing to conduct a judicial inquiry into these incidents, suggesting a pattern of atrocities against the tribal community.
The Congress party’s allegations reflect ongoing tensions between state and central authorities over the handling of Naxalism and tribal issues.
