Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha on Monday, launched a strong attack on LOP Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party, accusing them of enabling the growth of Naxalism in the country and showing a soft stance toward left-wing extremism. He criticised Gandhi for sharing a slogan associated with pro-Naxal sentiments, arguing that such actions raise serious concerns about political responsibility.
Shah alleged that Gandhi has, over time, been seen in proximity to individuals and groups with links to Naxals and their ideology, citing instances such as a 2010 event in Odisha where Gandhi shared a stage with Lado Sikaka, and a 2018 meeting in Hyderabad with Gummadi Vittal Rao, also known as Gaddar, whom Shah described as ideologically aligned with Naxalism.
The Home Minister further accused the Congress of supporting Naxal-leaning individuals during its time in power, pointing to bodies and appointments under the UPA government that, according to him, included people with links to extremist networks. He also referred to cases such as Binayak Sen’s inclusion in a Planning Commission committee and the alleged association of individuals connected to Naxalite activity with government programmes.
Shah cited the 2010 Dantewada attack, in which 76 CRPF personnel were killed by Naxals, and criticised what he described as a lack of strong condemnation from certain quarters, including reactions from student groups at the time. He also questioned the then government’s approach to dealing with Naxalism, contrasting it with the current administration’s strategy.
Highlighting the present government’s efforts, Shah said the Centre has adopted a zero-tolerance policy that has significantly weakened Maoist networks through security operations, development work, and policy measures. He claimed that the Naxal threat is now close to being eliminated, with leadership structures dismantled and increasing numbers of surrenders.
Concluding his remarks, Shah paid tribute to security personnel who have lost their lives in the fight against Naxalism and called on all political parties to support the national effort to fully eradicate left-wing extremism from the country.
