Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the nation from the Red Fort in Delhi on the 80th Independence Day. He criticized Naxalism and Maoism for harming the prospects of many young people. Modi stated that Maoist extremism is nearing its end in India and urged the identification and isolation of intellectual Naxals, according to PTI reports.
In his address, Modi noted progress against armed Naxals while cautioning against intellectual Naxals who may still promote unrest. He recalled that more than 3,500 security personnel had died in operations against the groups, a toll higher than in some wars. Since taking office in 2014, his government has aimed to eliminate Naxalism, freeing regions for development.
Modi accused earlier administrations of allowing individuals with Naxal sympathies to shape policies from advisory roles. He called for isolating such influences and integrating youth into the mainstream.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh replied that the remarks signaled desperation. He observed that Modi had previously used the term urban Naxals and now referred to dimagi Naxals. Ramesh described the Prime Minister as a master of political insults and claimed the government often implements ideas first raised by those it criticizes.
