Addressing a press conference, Sharma highlighted the achievements of the Ministry of Home Affairs, a portfolio he holds, and also asserted that sustained security operations and rehabilitation efforts are yielding significant results in the fight against Naxalism.
“The government’s resolve against Naxalism is clear. We are working with full vigor to ensure complete eradication of Naxalism from Chhattisgarh by March 31, 2026,” he said.
Sharma said security forces have recovered about 1,100 weapons since January 2024, including AK-47 rifles, INSAS rifles, self-loading rifles, light machine guns, mortars and pistols.
“Six members of the Maoist corps of the Politburo and the Central Committee have been killed, while two have surrendered. During this period, a total of 17 members of the Special Zone Committee have been killed, seven have surrendered and one has been arrested,” he said.
Sharma said he had long waited for the day when the number of surrenders would surpass the number of arrests, calling the current trend “a matter of satisfaction.”
“There are seven rehabilitation centers operational in the state. So far, around 1,700 former Naxalites, including 410 women, have undergone training in various skills at these facilities, while 232 are currently undergoing training. All surrendered Naxalites are given a welcome package including mobile phones to help them reconnect with society,” he said.
Aadhaar, ration and Ayushman cards are being prepared for them (ultrasound submitted) and exposure visits to Raipur are being organised, Sharma added.
Calls for surrender are being broadcast through radio stations in Jagdalpur, Saraipali and neighboring states, the deputy CM noted.
He added that the government aims to extend development to every village in Bastar, including access to schools, electricity, drinking water, hospitals and anganwadis, and ensure that the Constitution is implemented in all corners of the region.
On the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS), Sharma said the Center has developed a unified digital platform that connects police, prosecution, forensic units, courts and prisons.
Chhattisgarh was among the first states to implement the system, which has been fully rolled out in Bilaspur and Durg districts and will be expanded across the state within six months, he said.
Sharma said that between 2001 and 2023, 38 cases related to religious conversion were filed, while the number increased to 67 in 2024 and 2025 combined.
The increase reflects the seriousness of the government in tackling the issue to maintain social harmony and stability, he added.
The state’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), formed in 2016-17, registered its first FIR in 2025 in a case related to alleged links with terror groups like ISIS, he said, adding that the squad is being strengthened.
On illegal immigration, Sharma said a Special Task Force (STF) has been formed in all districts and a toll-free number has been launched to file complaints in this regard and shelter centers have been informed for the first time.
So far, 34 illegal immigrants have been deported, while action is being taken against others, he said.
– Ends
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