People chose the path of development, showed violence the way out – Chief Minister Shri Sai
Raipur, 17 February 2025
Democracy has achieved a historic feat in the first phase of three-tier panchayat elections in Chhattisgarh. Bastar division, which remained in the shadow of Naxalism for decades, is now moving towards the light of democracy. At many polling booths in Sukma and Bijapur districts, villagers are voting in panchayat elections for the first time after several decades.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that the people of Bastar have chosen the path of development and shown violence the way out. He said that this change is the result of the strong will of the state and central government, continuous development work and strong security system. This is not just an election, but a proof of the growing faith in democracy in Naxal-affected areas and the steps taken towards a fear-free society.
The fact that the Naxals did not oppose the Panchayat elections in Bastar is the result of the establishment of more than 40 new security camps in the area and the government’s strategy to restore confidence among the villagers. It is noteworthy that even in Poorvarti, the village of Naxal commander Hidma in Bastar, the villagers are excited to vote this time. This is a historic change and reflects the victory of democratic values.
Tremendous enthusiasm was also seen for voting in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagadh Chowki, Dantewada and Gariaband districts in the state. Villagers voted fearlessly in areas like Pusnar, Gangalur, Cherpal, Reddy, Palanar in Bijapur.
Strong roots of democracy in Bastar, a historic step towards the end of Naxalism
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the process of ending Naxalism in Bastar has now reached a decisive turn. In accordance with the resolve of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, a target has been set to free Chhattisgarh from Naxalism by March 2026. The state government is determined to connect the citizens of Bastar with development, education, health, employment and basic amenities. Roads, bridges, schools, hospitals and employment projects are being given priority in Bastar, which has increased the trust of the villagers on governance and democracy.
On this historic achievement, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that in Bastar, the Republic is winning over the Gun Tantra. This is the victory of all those villagers who abandoned fear and embraced democracy. This is the result of the hard work of the security forces, the farsightedness of the government and public participation.
Participation of every citizen is important in this victory of democracy. He said that successful and peaceful conduct of voting process even in Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh proves that the faith of common people in democracy is getting stronger day by day. Participation of every citizen is important in this success of democracy, and the voters of the state have shown that they are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.
