Team News Riveting
Raipur, September 19
A delegation of over 70 victims affected by the Maoist violence from Bastar region of Chhattisgarh today met Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence in New Delhi.
The people affected by Maoists violence shared their ordeal and demanded justice and rehabilitation. The delegation was led by Bastar Shanti Samiti, which is working for peace and development in affected areas in the state. Many of these people have lost their family members at the hands of rebels, some have lost their limbs, and some have become completely disabled.
The main objective of the meeting was to bring the suffering of the people affected by Maoist violence to the national level. Many victims narrated their ordeal, telling how Maoist violence completely changed their lives. Many shared poignant tales of losing loved ones or suffering life-altering injuries. The home minister listened carefully, promising that the government would prioritize security and development in Naxal-affected areas to promote lasting peace and facilitate rehabilitation.
The delegation included individuals who lost family members, suffered severe injuries, or became disabled as a result of the violence. During the meeting, Home Minister Shah expressed deep sympathy and sensitivity while listening to their heart-touching stories.
Praising the victims for their courage, the Home Minister said, “Your struggle and perseverance is an inspiration for the entire country. The difficulties you have faced are an example not only against Naxal violence, but also against injustice and atrocities.” He also assured that the government will provide all possible assistance to them and take concrete steps to root out Maoism.
Maoist victims have expressed their gratitude towards the Chhattisgarh government and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai for their efforts in prioritizing development and security in Naxal-affected areas. Victims noted that these initiatives empowered them to voice their struggles in Delhi, feeling encouraged by the government’s focus on rehabilitation and social development.
One victim shared, “We lost our families and happiness, but the state government’s efforts gave us the courage to speak out. Chief Minister Sai truly understands our pain and assures us of justice.” This sentiment reflects the positive impact of the state government’s approach on the lives of those affected by Naxal violence.
During a meeting with the Union Home Minister, Maoist victims narrated the devastation caused by Naxal violence, with many having lost family members, limbs, or enduring long-term physical and mental trauma. They voiced their hope that the government would provide the support necessary for healing and justice.
The Home Minister listened intently, promising that the government would accelerate development initiatives in these regions and take concrete steps to combat Maoism, facilitating the victims’ rehabilitation and return to normal life.
Earlier in the day, the victims gathered at Jantar Mantar to raise awareness about their plight. Their aim was to highlight the need for peace and development and to ensure that their demands for justice were heard.
One victim remarked, “Inspired by the Chhattisgarh government’s efforts, we found the courage to speak out in Delhi. We now hope for lasting peace and a chance to rebuild our lives.”
The delegation is scheduled to meet President Draupadi Murmu on September 21, where they will advocate for permanent peace and development in Maoist-affected areas. They plan to submit a memorandum requesting increased security, expedited development projects, and comprehensive rehabilitation for families impacted by Maoist violence.
This upcoming meeting has sparked new hope among the victims that their struggles will gain national recognition and that the meaningful steps will be taken towards their rehabilitation, bringing a new era of peace and development in their regions.
