Naxal violence's scars persist despite decades of decline: Shah

Even as Naxalite violence has receded across India, the human toll of five decades of conflict remains a pressing concern, according to Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Speaking at a virtual event focused on aiding communities scarred by Maoist activities, Shah underscored the need for sustained rehabilitation efforts in affected regions.

The Home Minister highlighted the scope of a disability assistance initiative conducted in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh between October 5-7, which provided support to more than 3,600 persons with disabilities. The Bastar district, historically among India's most violence-affected areas, accounted for approximately 1,570 of the beneficiaries, reflecting the concentrated impact of decades-long insurgency in the region.

The programme represents part of a broader government strategy to address the legacy of Maoist violence through targeted welfare interventions. Officials have increasingly focused on rehabilitation and livelihood support for communities affected by insurgency-related violence, including persons with disabilities resulting from conflict-related incidents.

Chhattisgarh, which accounts for a significant portion of India's remaining Maoist presence, has seen a substantial decline in violence over recent years following intensified counter-insurgency operations. However, policymakers continue grappling with the social and economic reconstruction of communities devastated during the height of the conflict.