PM Modi celebrates Diwali with Bastar security forces, says India has overcome Naxalism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday celebrated Diwali with security personnel deployed in anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh's Bastar, calling the festival particularly significant as the country marks its first Diwali since the end of Naxalism.

Addressing the personnel, Modi credited their sacrifices and dedication for eliminating the Maoist insurgency from the region and enabling a new phase of development. He said every district in the country was now free from Naxalism and millions of citizens had overcome the fear associated with the insurgency.

"This Diwali in 2026 is truly special! This is the first Diwali since the nation won its decades-long battle against Naxalism and Maoist terror. This is the first Diwali where every single district in the country is free from Naxalism. This is the first Diwali where crores of our citizens have overcome the fear of Naxalism," Modi said.


Explaining his decision to spend the festival with security personnel, the Prime Minister said those guarding the country's borders and protecting citizens within the country were part of his family.

"Today, across the entire nation and in every corner of the world, crores of Indians are celebrating this sacred festival of lights. People are travelling from far and wide to return to their homes. It is a wonderful occasion for families and loved ones to come together and celebrate. I, too, have come to celebrate Diwali in your midst. Those who protect the nation—whether at the borders or within the country—those who are the guardians of the nation and the brave sons and daughters of Mother India—you are all members of my own family," he said.

Modi said Bastar, which was once affected by Naxal violence, was now witnessing a fresh wave of development because of the commitment of security personnel.

"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," he said.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the improved operational record of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), noting that no personnel had lost their lives in operational incidents over the preceding year.

"For the first time in 47 years, not a single CRPF jawan has lost his life on duty in the past year. This is a victory for the country's right policies and strong resolve," Modi said.

He credited the security forces' efforts and the government's approach for the progress in the fight against Naxalism, saying their work had helped create conditions for peace and development in areas previously affected by the insurgency.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Diwali with Indian Army personnel at the Sherathang War Memorial near Nathula Pass in Sikkim.

Singh extended festive greetings to soldiers and their families and paid tribute to the martyrs commemorated at the memorial, who laid down their lives in the service of the nation.

"First of all, I would like to congratulate all of you and your family members on Diwali. I would also like to congratulate the martyrs of Sherathang War Memorial who have sacrificed their lives for us," he said.

Singh praised the discipline, dedication and sacrifices of the armed forces, saying their presence along India's borders allowed citizens to celebrate festivals and sleep peacefully.