Politics · India Bureau
Modi warns of 'intellectual Naxals' threatening India's democracy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said armed Maoist movements have been suppressed, but ideological adversaries within political parties and civil organisations remain a threat to constitutional democracy. Speaking at a CRPF camp in Chhattisgarh during Diwali celebrations, Modi urged citizens to identify and counter such elements.
LSN India ·
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shifted focus from the military defeat of armed Naxalite groups to what he termed "dimagi Naxals"—ideologically-driven opponents working within mainstream political parties and organisations to undermine India's constitutional framework.
"We must identify and defeat such elements and secure the country," Modi said while celebrating Diwali with Central Reserve Police Force personnel at a camp in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The Prime Minister, dressed in military-style camouflage uniform, emphasised that despite government successes against Naxal funding and operations, the ideological threat persists.
The government declared the country free of armed Naxalism on March 31, marking a significant milestone in India's counter-insurgency efforts. Modi attributed this achievement to sound governance policies and strong political resolve, particularly measures that substantially curtailed financial flows to Maoist and secessionist groups.
Modi's remarks come amid broader political discourse in India regarding threats to democratic institutions. The Prime Minister's comments suggest the government views ideological opposition within institutional frameworks as a continuing security concern requiring public vigilance and identification.