Raipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a veiled but sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of decades of neglect and hypocrisy toward the people of Chhattisgarh.
Speaking at the Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav in Nava Raipur, marking 25 years of the state’s formation, PM Modi said those who “pretend to uphold the Constitution and shed crocodile tears for social justice” left the state mired in poverty, poor infrastructure, and Left-Wing Extremism (LWE).
‘Decades of Pain Under Maoist Terror’
PM Modi said that the people of Chhattisgarh endured five decades of suffering due to Maoist violence, blaming previous governments for abandoning citizens to their fate.
“Those who ruled the country for decades abandoned the people to their fate while enjoying the comforts of life,” he said, clearly referring to the Congress-led UPA regimes without naming them directly.
He said that after witnessing “countless mothers weeping for their children,” he resolved in 2014 to eliminate Maoist terrorism from India.
‘From 125 Districts to Just Three’
The Prime Minister asserted that Maoist influence has drastically reduced under his government.
“Eleven years ago, over 125 districts were affected; today, only three remain with traces of activity,” he said confidently, adding, “The day is not far when Chhattisgarh and India will be completely free from Maoist terrorism.”
PM Modi also highlighted a surge in Maoist surrenders, citing over 200 cadres laying down arms in Bastar on October 17, more than 20 in Kanker, and dozens nationwide, including high-profile insurgents with large bounties.
‘From Red Flags to the Tricolour’
The Prime Minister showcased stories of transformation in areas once dominated by insurgents.
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Chilkapalli village (Bijapur) received electricity for the first time in 70 years.
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Rekawaya in Abujhmad now has its first school since Independence.
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Puvarti, once a rebel stronghold, now waves the Tricolour instead of the red flag.
“Bastar, once synonymous with insurgency, now celebrates cultural events like the Bastar Pandum and Bastar Olympics,” PM Modi said, calling it a symbol of peace and resurgence.
Rs 14,260 Crore Projects Launched
During the event, PM Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth over Rs 14,260 crore, spanning key sectors such as roads, energy, healthcare, and industry.
Key highlights include:
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A Rs 3,150 crore four-lane highway linking Chhattisgarh to Jharkhand.
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New medical colleges and power substations to enhance infrastructure.
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The Nagpur–Jharsuguda gas pipeline to boost energy connectivity.
‘This Is Your Time,’ PM Tells Youth
In an inspiring message to the youth of Chhattisgarh, PM Modi said:
“This is your time; no goal is unachievable.”
He urged them to seize the opportunity to contribute to India’s growth story, assuring that the central government would provide full support to accelerate Chhattisgarh’s development.
“Together, we will advance Chhattisgarh and the nation,” he concluded.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was attended by Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and Union Ministers Jual Oram, Durga Das Uikey, and Tokan Sahu.