New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent Diwali with security forces stationed in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar on Sunday. Speaking to the personnel gathered
there, he called this year’s celebrations truly memorable, pointing out that India had finally brought an end to a decades-long struggle against Maoist violence.
Modi noted that this was the very first Diwali where every single district across the country was free from the shadow of Left-Wing Extremism, allowing millions of citizens to live without fear. He pointed out that Bastar, which spent years dealing with conflict, was now turning the page and moving into an era of growth.
“You are all a part of my family. This time, I have come to celebrate Diwali in the forests of Bastar. This is a land where the menace of Naxalism once prevailed. However, owing to your sacrifice and dedication, the menace of Naxalism has now ended in this very region, and a new wave of development has begun,” Modi said to the troops.
Decades-long fight and sacrifices of the forces
Crediting the turn of events to the courage of the forces, the Prime Minister explained that he chose to spend the day in Bastar on behalf of all 140 crore Indians to personally thank them.
“Diwali in 2026 is truly special. After 40–50 years, such a Diwali has come for you. This is the first Diwali when the country has won its decades-long battle against Naxalism and Maoist terror. This is the first Diwali when every district of the country is free from Naxalism. This is the first Diwali when crores of countrymen have overcome the fear of Naxalism. This is an extraordinary achievement, and a great deal of credit goes to you. It belongs to millions of brave men and women like you, our soldiers and security personnel. That is why I have come here today to celebrate Diwali with you,” he added.
Defending the borders and the hinterland
Modi also spoke about how deeply internal stability ties into national sovereignty, remarking that when security at home stays tight, outside threats fail to take hold. He placed the efforts of domestic security personnel right alongside the soldiers posted along the borders.
“The role played by our armed forces at the borders is the same role that all of you security personnel play within the country. You have made countless sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the nation. You have made immense personal sacrifices,” Modi said, wrapping up his address with warm Diwali wishes to personnel deployed right across the country.
