On this occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated the anti-Naxal police squad for their consistent efforts in tackling Naxalism in the region. He also reviewed the overall security situation, and addressed local issues such as damage caused by wild elephants and tigers, as well as losses due to unseasonal rains, during a District Planning Committee (DPC) meeting.
While speaking at the event, Fadnavis stated, “The battle against Naxalism is no longer ideological. We have now entered the final phase of this fight. The number of active Naxalites has dwindled so significantly that they can be counted on one’s fingers. We are confident that Gadchiroli will soon be declared a Naxal-free district.”
The Chief Minister welcomed the surrendered Maoists by presenting them with copies of the Indian Constitution, symbolizing their reintegration into the democratic framework. To encourage rehabilitation, the Maharashtra State Government, along with Lloyds Metal Company, is working to provide employment opportunities to surrendered Naxalites under the state’s surrender and rehabilitation policy.
In a heartwarming move, wedding ceremonies of 13 surrendered Naxalite couples were held at Shahid Pandu Alam Hall in the presence of the Chief Minister. The newlyweds were felicitated and provided with gifts and essential items, further reinforcing the administration’s commitment to their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The anti-Naxal operations unit received a special commendation for neutralizing four Naxalites in an encounter near Kawande Police Station. Additional Superintendent of Police M. Ramesh, Vishal Nagarguje, and 17 other officers were felicitated by the Chief Minister for their contribution to improving security in the region.
During his visit, CM Fadnavis also engaged with local citizens and took stock of several pressing issues, including:
Frequent wild elephant and tiger attacks
Heavy crop damage due to unseasonal rains
Distribution of essential relief materials to affected families
The visit marked a comprehensive review of security, development, and public welfare in the Gadchiroli district — an area long plagued by Naxal influence but now showing signs of strong recovery.